Tarsometatarsal Sequestration in an Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and an Ostrich (Struthio camelus)

An emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) and an ostrich (Struthio camelus) developed swelling of the tarsometatarsal bone and lameness after severe blunt trauma. A 2-cm laceration was present at the traumatized site in the ostrich, but there was no cutaneous lesion in the emu. Radiographs of both patients revealed extensive periosteal proliferation surrounding a sequestrum. Sequestrectomy was successful while the patients were immobilized with general anesthesia. Post-operative management included bandaging, systemic antimicrobial therapy, and stall confinement for 3 wk. Both birds regained full function of the affected leg. Management and handling of ratites should incorporate measures to prevent trauma of the legs. If focal swelling occurs in tissue overlying the distal tibiotarsus or tarsometatarsus of ratites, sequestration should be considered. Radiography will confirm the diagnosis and the nonviable bone fragments can be successfully removed.