Thoracic and pelvic limb fracture and luxation management in raptors: A five-year retrospective study

Fractures and luxations of the thoracic and pelvic limbs are frequently encountered in wild raptor populations, and are most commonly due to trauma such as collisions with vehicles, powerlines, and other objects. Correction of these injuries can involve surgery; physical therapy, and significant amounts of time and other resources. This study examined the factors associated with rehabilitation outcomes in 301 birds with fractures and luxations of the thoracic and pelvic limbs treated at the Carolina Raptor Center over 5 years. Factors examined included (1) age of the bird, (2) species/size of the bird, (3) joint involvement, (4) closed versus open fractures, (5) method of repair, and (6) whether physical therapy was performed. The study sought to determine which variables are more likely to lead to the successful repair and release of a raptor. Factors associated with a successful release in birds with thoracic limb injuries included closed fractures, nonsurgical intervention, and physical therapy performed on the affected limb. No specific factors were identified to be associated with successful release of birds with pelvic limb injuries.