Successful Rehabilitation and Release of a Bald Eagle () After Arthrodesis of a Metacarpophalangeal Joint Luxation.

Abstract

The metacarpophalangeal joint is a compound joint composed of the major and minor metacarpals and the minor and major digits. Although the motion of this joint is restricted, it plays an important role in minor adjustments in flight. The ability of birds to gain lift and fly with limited or inhibited function of this joint has not been well studied in raptors. This report represents the first published case of successful rehabilitation and release of a bald eagle () after complete arthrodesis of a metacarpophalangeal joint luxation. The patient was presented to the Louisiana State University Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana with a chronic, complete luxation of the left metacarpophalangeal joint and articular fracture of an unknown origin. Owing to the chronicity of the injury, a closed reduction and stabilization with conservative management were not achievable. Articular debridement and external fixation with a type 1A fixator were used to immobilize the joint. Complete anatomic reduction was not achieved; however, this did not inhibit the bird's ability to gain lift, land, and navigate in the air. Postrelease monitoring was not pursued for this patient. Arthrodesis should be considered a viable treatment option for metacarpophalangeal joint luxations in bald eagles or other large raptors.