Retrospective Analysis of Pelvic Limb Fracture Management in Companion Psittacine Birds (60 Cases).

Pelvic limb fractures carry significant morbidity in avian patients, and although management options are well researched, published data on long-term complication rates and mortality outcomes are limited. Here, we present a cross-sectional study evaluating pelvic limb long bone fractures in companion psittacine birds presenting to an exotic-only veterinary hospital in the United Kingdom between 2005 and 2020, focusing on fixation techniques and long-term outcomes. Of the 60 cases that met the inclusion criteria, 22 separate species were represented, with an age range of 8 weeks to 25 years and an even distribution of sexes, among those that had been sexed. The majority of fractures (71.7%) were tibiotarsal; femoral (15%) and tarsometatarsal (13.3%) bones represented the other fracture sites. Several different fracture management methods were used, including external coaptation, surgery, or cage rest. Average time from fracture identification to healing was 33 days, with a median of 31 days and a range of 11-121 days. Satisfactory resolution of fracture repair was achieved in 85.5% (47/55) of cases that were able to be followed to conclusion. Complications were identified in 41.7% (25/60) of fractures of all pelvic long bones. Complications during fracture management were more common in cases treated with external coaptation. The most common complication reported was patient interference with bandages, splints, or both. This study provides an overview of pelvic limb long bone fracture management outcomes, which should prove useful for avian practitioners in clinical practice.

Heterotopic Ossification Bone Formation in the Frontal Bones of an African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus).

A 5-year-old, male African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) was presented with multiple, slow-growing, firm, bilateral masses around the dorsal orbital rims. Computer tomographic imaging revealed mild, incomplete bridging bone formation on the rostrodorsal aspects of the head. A moderate amount of smooth bone formation was identified at the rostrodorsal aspect to the left orbit, with minimal associated soft tissue swelling. Surgical biopsies were collected from the masses and histopathological analysis of the most rostral right mass showed well-differentiated bone, surrounded by dense fibrous connective tissue. Scattered, well-differentiated osteocytes were present within the bone. No evidence of neoplastic changes or infectious agents were identified. The histopathological changes were consistent with metaplastic bone formation. History obtained from the owner revealed recent head trauma, which likely induced the cranial heterotopic ossification in the African grey parrot.

Osseous Migration of a Perforating Gastrointestinal Foreign Body in an Indian Runner Duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus).

An Indian runner duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) was presented for a second opinion after a linear, metallic foreign body was identified on radiographic images. The primary veterinarian performed diagnostic imaging while investigating the presenting complaint of the duck's left pelvic limb lameness. The images obtained from a computed tomography scan performed during the second-opinion visit revealed a linear, metallic foreign body with an associated migration tract originating from the ventriculus and terminating in the proximal left femur. Significant osteomyelitis was noted at the proximal left femur associated with the presence of the linear, metallic object. The foreign body and the adhesions associated with its migration were removed in 2, staged, surgical procedures. Although penetrating ventricular foreign bodies have been previously reported, migration through the cortex of a long bone is an unusual presentation. This case demonstrates that perforating, migrating, gastrointestinal foreign bodies can result in lameness refractory to analgesia and ancillary supportive care.

Superficial Chronic Ulcerative Dermatitis (SCUD) in Psittacine Birds: Review of 11 Cases (2008-2016).

We reviewed 11 cases of superficial chronic ulcerative dermatitis (SCUD) in psittacine birds that presented to an exotic animal practice over an 8-year period. African grey parrots ( Psittacus erithacus) were overrepresented, accounting for 55% of SCUD-affected birds. All affected birds were hand-reared pets and bonded strongly to their owners. In all cases, fungal culture results were negative. The most commonly cultured bacteria were Enterobacter cloacae (27%), followed by Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus (both 18%). An underlying cause of behavioral self-mutilation with secondary infection of dermatitis lesions by opportunistic bacteria was suspected in 10 of 11 cases. The axillae were the most common anatomic sites affected (45%). In two cases, more than one site was affected concurrently. Mean age of birds affected was 11.4 years. Two birds had suffered from SCUD previously, with 1 bird having suffered from 3 previous episodes and was euthanized as a result. All birds were treated with systemic antibiotics, topical antibacterial preparations, and systemic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A neck collar was applied in all cases. Median time to clinical resolution was 2 months (range, 1-21 months). Excluding the bird that was euthanized, all birds showed a positive response to treatment.

Cloacal Prolapse in Raptors: Review of 16 Cases.

Sixteen cases of cloacal prolapse in raptors were reviewed in this study. Colonic prolapse was the most common presentation (56% of cases). Red-tailed hawks ( Buteo jamaicensis ) were overrepresented, comprising 66% of colonic prolapse cases. In cases of colonic prolapse, postsurgical stricture formation was a commonly identified complication after resection and anastomosis of the colon. A novel technique was used in 2 cases of colonic prolapse, in which sterile, semirigid rubber tubing was placed in the distal colon and removed per-cloaca at the end of the procedure; this facilitated a secure, fluid-tight anastomosis while maintaining sufficient intestinal lumen. Oviductal prolapse (31% of cases) was associated with the most guarded prognosis (40% treatment success). Cloacoliths were treated successfully in 2 birds (13% of cases) by minimally invasive per-cloacal manual removal.

Distraction Osteogenesis Correction of Mandibular Ramis Fracture Malunion in a Juvenile Mute Swan ( Cygnus olor ).

A juvenile mute swan (Cygnus olor) was presented with right lateral deviation of the mandible. Radiographs demonstrated a healed fracture of the right mandibular ramis, which had compromised osteogenesis. A corrective osteotomy was performed and an osteogenic distractor was inserted over the lateral aspect of the right mandible. Dental acrylic implants were fixed to the rhinotheca to correct rotational alignment. A pharyngostomy tube was placed to facilitate administration of nutrition and medication. Postoperative images confirmed correct alignment of the mandible in relation to the maxilla. Implants were removed and postoperative complications were not reported. This is the first report of an osteogenic distractor used to correct mandibular deviation in an avian species. Distraction osteogenesis should be considered as a valid surgical option in juvenile or adult avian patients with pathologic bone shortening.