Echocardiographic assessment and reference values of clinically healthy white storks (Ciconia ciconia) using transcoelomic approach

This study aimed to determine species-specific echocardiographic parameters in rehabilitated and clinically healthy white storks (Ciconia ciconia) using transcoelomic echocardiography, providing essential reference values for avian cardiovascular assessment. Thirty-seven white storks admitted to the Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Veterinary Faculty Rehabilitation Center were evaluated after a 3-month observation period. Only clinically healthy individuals were included. Echocardiographic measurements were performed using a transcoelomic approach without anesthesia. Cardiac parameters, including interventricular septal thickness (IVSd, IVSs), left ventricular dimensions (LVIDd, LVIDs, LVPWd, LVPWs), functional indices (fractional shortening, ejection fraction), and Doppler-derived hemodynamic values, were recorded and analyzed statistically. All individuals exhibited normal cardiac morphology and hemodynamics. No significant differences were observed between male and female storks (p>0.05). The ejection fraction ranged from 23% to 97%, and interventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd) was between 0.27 and 0.86 cm. Fractional shortening varied from 14% to 75%. Hemodynamic measurements, including mitral valve inflow velocities and aortic flow parameters, were comparable to values reported in other large avian species. No pathological jet flow or valvular regurgitation was detected via color Doppler imaging. This study establishes the first echocardiographic reference ranges for white storks, offering valuable insights into avian cardiac physiology. The findings contribute to wildlife rehabilitation, providing a diagnostic baseline for assessing cardiovascular health in migratory birds. Future studies incorporating larger sample sizes and age-based comparisons will enhance our understanding of species-specific cardiac adaptations.