Design and Clinical Evaluation of a 3D-Printed Splint for the Treatment of Tibiotarsal Fractures in Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) are among the most frequently kept companion bird species worldwide. Due to their small size, fragile skeletal structures, and susceptibility to environmental stress factors, trauma-induced long bone fractures, particularly of the tibiotarsus, are frequently encountered in clinical practice. Although surgical intervention provides rigid biomechanical stability, it presents risks such as anaesthetic complications and iatrogenic bone damage for patients weighing under 300 grams. Conventional splints may fall short in providing precise anatomical angulation and necessary structural rigidity. To overcome these limitations, this study aimed to develop and clinically evaluate a custom three-dimensional (3D) printed splint designed for the treatment of tibiotarsal fractures in budgerigars. The study included nine adult budgerigars with trauma-induced tibiotarsal fractures. Utilizing radiographic measurements obtained from each patient's healthy (contralateral) leg as a reference at the time of clinical presentation, patient-specific 3D splints were rapidly designed and printed. To prevent skin damage, the splints were secured using a non-adhesive contact layer. The duration of splint application was recorded, and patients were scheduled for a follow-up examination one week after splint removal. Most fractures were mid-diaphyseal (77.7%) and transverse (44.4%). The mean splint application duration was recorded as 10 days. Successful healing without significant lameness was achieved in 77.7% (7/9) of the cases, whereas two birds died due to complications involving edema and open fracture progression. In conclusion, 3D-printed splints can be considered a well-tolerated alternative to traditional bandaging methods for budgerigar tibiotarsal fractures, providing adequate rigidity and correct anatomical alignment at the fracture site.
Institution: Ondokuz Mayıs University
Language: English
Subfield: Small Animals
Field: Veterinary
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Awards: G1321993874, G1923268017, G387866819, G54060329
OpenAlex ID: W7218380342