The snake was referred to following a history of trauma by Dr Deepa Katyal, India’s first Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner.A detailed plain CT examination of the caudal coelomic region was conducted at FVD using high-resolution thin-section imaging with multiplanar reconstruction techniques.Given the inherent challenges of imaging a live reptile, a targeted local nerve block was administered to the cobra prior to the procedure.This allowed the serpent to be safely and humanely immobilised and taped in position, enabling the acquisition of high-quality, artefact-free images without the need for general anaesthesia.The approach reflects FVD’s commitment to minimising patient stress while maintaining diagnostic precision across all species.The scan revealed a fracture involving a right-sided rib in the mid-to-caudal coelomic region with mild displacement and multifocal subcutaneous air pockets along the body wall.It also revealed soft tissue irregularity and thickening corresponding to the external traumatic lesion and diffuse gaseous distension of the gastrointestinal tract.The CT scan showed no evidence of major organ compromise, coelomic effusion or severe vertebral injury, enabling veterinarians to better assess the extent of trauma and plan appropriate treatment and rehabilitation.CT technology allows us to evaluate delicate anatomical structures with remarkable precision, especially in challenging wildlife trauma cases, said the Fredna Vet Diagnostics Team.The Indian Spectacled Cobra is one of India’s most recognised snake species and cases requiring advanced diagnostic intervention remain relatively uncommon due to the complexities involved in handling and imaging reptiles safely.Fredna Vet Diagnostics continues to expand its diagnostic capabilities across companion animal, exotic and wildlife medicine by integrating advanced imaging modalities with specialised veterinary expertise.Published on June 8, 2026