Retrospective evaluation of diseases in wild birds brought to Aksaray University Veterinary Faculty Animal Hospital Surgery Clinics: 102 cases (2020-2023)

Abstract

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate surgical diseases in wild birds that were brought to Aksaray University Veterinary Faculty Animal Hospital. A total of 102 wild birds with orthopedic and/or soft tissue diseases were included in the study. The orthopedic diseases encountered were arthrosis (n=3), luxation (n=5), and fracture (n=38). The most frequent type of fracture was ulna fractures (33.33%), followed by radius fractures (27.45%), metacarpus fractures (9,80%), humerus fractures (9,80%), tibiotarsus fractures (9,80%), carpus (5,88%), and finally femur fractures (3.92%). The fractures were treated using an '8'-shaped bandage (n=15), intramedullary pin and cerclage application (n=12), and external fixator (n=1). In cases of infection, nerve damage, joint arthrosis, bone necrosis, and muscle macerations, wing amputation (n=10) was performed. The most prevalent soft tissue diseases were wounds and injuries (n=45), followed by general condition disorders (n=15), ophthalmological diseases (n=6), and neurological diseases (n=5) respectively. Wounds were treated with sutures or wound dressings. Infectious ophthalmologic diseases and neurological diseases were medically treated. All wild birds that are brought to a veterinary clinic should undergo a detailed physical and radiological examination for an accurate diagnosis. In cases where emergency intervention is required, it is crucial to perform the indicated treatment without delay and to maintain follow-up care. This will ensure that the birds can be safely returned to their natural habitats.