Intramedullary Pining versus Tape Splinting for Fixation of Tibiotarsal Fractures in Small Cage Birds: An Experimental Study

Objective- Tibiotarsal bone is the most commonly fractured long bone in small companion birds. The treatment options are basically limited to tape splinting the leg due to anatomical limitations. The goal of this study was to investigate intramedullary pinning (IM pin) as an alternative treatment option. Design- Experimental study Animals- Thirty mature budgerigars with an average weight of 30 g. Procedures- The birds underwent mid shaft tibiotarsus osteotomy and the fractures were managed by tape splinting or IM pining in each group. The IM pins and splints were removed at 21st day after surgery. Radiology was performed at 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after surgery. Histopathological and biomechanical evaluations were performed on specimens by day 28. Stability on palpation, lameness scores and mortality rate were recorded. Results- Radiography showed perfect bone healing in the IM pin group versus the presence of malunion and deformity in the splint group. Histopathology demonstrated a more advanced bone healing in the IM pin group, characterized by the dominance of new bone trabeculae and new cortex formation with very little fibrous tissue. Biomechanical tests revealed significantly higher yield load, ultimate load, stiffness, and absorbed energy in the IM pin group (p