Toe Splints

The Use of Vetrap™ in the Immobilization of Toes in Raptors

Sigrid Noll Ueblacker
Birds of Prey Foundation
Broomfield, Colorado 80020

ABSTRACT

An easily obtainable media, Vetrap Bandaging Tape™, 3M Animal Care Products, can be used to provide stabilization and/or the use of a damaged foot to stand on. The cause of the inability to use a foot may be neurological deficits, previously immobilized fractures of the tibiotarsus, or fractured toes. This splint has been used successfully on all raptors, except eagles and on occasion Great Horned Owls. The splint is too weak for their powerful feet.

INTRODUCTION

The described method of immobilization developed out of necessity, when a young pigeon with an apparent birth defect was admitted in 1983. The bird was standing with it’s toes curled under and was unable to use it’s foot. The splint was applied for two weeks and the bird was able to use it’s foot from then on.

The splint has since been used on numerous raptors, including American Kestrels, Prairie- and Peregrine Falcons, Sharp-shinned Hawks, and other accipiters, Red Tailed Hawks and other buteos, and various species of owls.

It is a light weight, non-invasive, comfortable method of assisting a bird to regain it’s normal functions.

APPLICATION

Vetrap™ may be cut into strips of various widths, in order to accommodate the toe size of the bird. It encourages the bird to apply pressure and weight on the foot. The bird can hold it’s toes in a normal position and is able to perch and/or tear it’s own food.

This splint does not provides a cure for permanent neurological damage, but has been used as an aid for birds with tibiotarsal fractures and/or temporary neurological deficits. Our veterinarian’s approval has always been obtained prior to application. Dr. Lee E. Eggleston, who practices in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has been the Foundation’s veterinarian for 16 years. He has treated and rehabilitated thousands of raptors.

ILLUSTRATION OF METHOD

First, this splint is to create a bracelet on which to attach the “artificial tendons”. Great care must be taken to prevent lack of circulation and blood supply to the toes The bracelet must be firm, but not too tight.The splint usually stays on until either the fracture is healed, or, if there is only neurological damage, for about two weeks.

Depending on the degree of neurological damage, some toes may have better function than others. The artificial “tendon” can be adjusted accordingly by stretching or relaxing the strips of Vetrap™. Each strip is then placed on the bracelet by simply applying pressure and squeezing the material together. Vetrap™ sticks to itself, does not damage feathers and appears to be an ideal media for this process.

Wrap each toe separately, using Vetrap™ tailored to the size of the toes. Attach each strip to the bracelet as needed.

Remember that immobilization of fractures often causes swelling and splints may become too tight and cause lack of circulation, which may cause cold and/or disclolored toes and result in the loss of toes. Check temperature and coloration of toes frequently.

Remember that Vetrap™ is flexible and expandable. Do not to cut off circulation and only apply gentle support as needed.