Surgical Repair of a Mandibular Fracture in an Amazon Parrot (Amazona aestiva)

Injured birds pose a challenge in veterinary medicine, requiring innovative approaches for restoration of function and enhancing the quality of life. This case report describes the successful reconstruction of the mandibular beak of an Amazona aestiva parrot (Psittacidae) after a traumatic injury. The injury caused a fracture in the mandibular beak, resulting in significant limitation of function. Computed tomography imaging was used for surgical planning, allowing visualization of the remaining mandibular beak on the parrot's rhamphotheca and determination of the appropriate dimensions of the implanted plate. Plates were surgically applied to reconstruct the mandibular beak structure. The surgery followed an Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocol, which resulted in enhanced mandibular beak function and total adjustment to the plates. Six months posttreatment, the beak components had fused, and the plates had detached. At the 1- and 2.5-year follow-up, veterinarian assessment noted no concerns with chewing or ingesting food. This study highlights the effectiveness of employing surgical techniques derived from dental expertise and utilizing biomaterials, such as human maxillofacial plates, to successfully reconstruct complex structures in birds.