Undertail body wall herniation with abdominal air sac rupture in budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus)

Abstract

Ventral abdominal hernia cases are frequently encountered in bird species. These abdominal hernias are usually seen in sexually active female birds. Although the etiopathology is not fully understood, it is believed that the main cause is hyperestrogenism. Among the herniated organs, intestines have been reported most commonly. However, a case of abdominal hernia accompanied by air sac rupture has not been identified in the literature. An 8-year-old female budgerigar presented with a complaint of swelling under the tail and was brought to Ankara University Veterinary Hospital. Clinical examination revealed the presence of a ventral abdominal hernia under the tail. Radiographic evaluation showed that a significant portion of the swelling was filled with air, and the herniated structures were identified as intestines. The swelling was punctured with a 16G gray cannula, and the air was completely drained. Immediately after the air was expelled, it was observed that the air refilled, indicating air sac rupture. During the surgery, the herniated intestines were reduced, and the abdominal wall was repaired. At the final follow-up examination after 14 days, complete recovery of the patient was observed. In conclusion, the surgical procedure and postoperative follow-up results of a case involving previously unreported ventral abdominal herniation accompanied by air sac rupture are presented.