Optimization of Avian Long Bone Fracture Repairs – A Duck Bone Model

Hamish Baron, BVSc (Hons), MVS (Avian Medicine), PhD, FANZCVS (Avian Medicine and Surgery), Director, The Unusual Pet Vets, Australia

Avian fractures are repaired using a variety of external and internal fixation, but limited data exists comparing the strength, flexibility and holding power of the various techniques. Specifically, there is limited comprehensive data on the use of locking compression plates and polyether ether ketone (PEEK) rods in avian bones. We will establish how thread pitch impacts screw-holding ability in the femur and humerus. This data will inform screw and implant size selection and allow us to compare the commonly used repair techniques: type one tie-in external fixateur, locking compression plates, as well as a novel technique using intramedullary PEEK rods, in a stress-to-failure bone model in the femur and humerus of cadavers.