Blue-fronted Amazon parrot leg bone fracture fixed with tie-in surgery

Abstract

In avian orthopedics, various conservative and surgical techniques are reported for fracture treatment, with the choice of an appropriate osteosynthesis technique being challenging due to the biological, mechanical, and clinical aspects of each species. Within this context, the objective of the present study is to report the use of Tie-in fixation in the treatment of a distal diaphyseal tibiotarsus fracture in a Blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva). The bird was presented with a history of trauma due to a fall and radiographic examination revealed a complete, oblique fracture in the distal third of the right tibiotarsus. Osteosynthesis was performed by an open fracture reduction and normograde insertion of a Kirschner wire into the tibiotarsus. Subsequently, three additional Kirschner wires were inserted as a Type II external skeletal fixator. A external bar made of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) was used to connect the intramedullary pin with the external fixator. Fracture healing progression was monitored by radiographs at 21, 35, and 48 days postoperatively. By day 35, bone callus formation and early remodeling were observed, prompting implant removal. It was concluded that the treatment was appropriate for the patient, with biological, clinical, and mechanical factors contributing to the success of the therapy.