Radiographic evaluation of abdominal wall herniation in budgerigars (MELOPSITTACUS UNDULATUS)

This retrospective descriptive study evaluated the radiographic features of abdominal wall herniation in 72 budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) presented with abdominal or caudoventral coelomic distension, abnormal abdominal contour, or suspected protrusion of coelomic contents. The study population consisted of 71 females and 1 male; age was available for 65 birds, ranging from 2 to 8 years. All birds underwent plain radiographic examination, followed by contrast-enhanced radiography after oral administration of iohexol at 1 mL per bird, corresponding to 300 mg iodine per bird. Radiographic assessment focused on the location and contour of the protruded abdominal wall region, suspected herniated contents, gastrointestinal contrast filling patterns, suspected free fluid or localized gas accumulation, mineralized egg-related material, overlying skin and subcutaneous tissue thickening, and associated skeletal findings. Polyostotic hyperostosis was recorded in 49 of 72 birds (68.1%), and mineralized material compatible with egg-related remnants was identified in 10 of 72 birds (13.9%). The herniation was recorded as ventral or ventrocaudal in 40 birds (55.6%) and dorsocaudal or perineal in 4 birds (5.6%); location was not clearly recorded in 28 birds (38.9%). Contrast-enhanced radiography improved visualization of gastrointestinal involvement, particularly intestinal loops, and helped differentiate contrast-filled intestinal segments from adjacent soft tissue or non-gastrointestinal components. In selected cases, ultrasonography provided additional diagnostic value by helping differentiate fluid-filled or cystic structures when radiographic findings were inconclusive. Overall, this study provides an imaging-based descriptive reference for assessing abdominal wall herniation in budgerigars and highlights the practical value of plain and contrast-enhanced radiography as well as complementary ultrasonography for clinical assessment and preoperative planning.