Green-Cheeked Conure Sarcoma Treatment and Wing Amputation for Brooklyn Patient at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic

angela5591
2 days ago
3 min read

Case Study #18: Conure Wing Amputation (Soft Tissue Sarcoma)

Species: Green-Cheeked Conure (Age 6)

From: Brooklyn, NY

Finding a lump on your pet is a moment of dread for any owner. When the patient is a bird, the situation is even more complex, as avian tumors can be aggressive and difficult to remove.

The patient, a 6-year-old female Green-Cheeked Conure from Brooklyn, NY, presented to Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic with a soft tissue mass located over the patient's left carpus (wrist). This case demonstrates the importance of aggressive surgical intervention and thorough cancer staging using CT technology.

The Diagnosis: Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Upon physical examination, the mass was firm and adhered to the underlying tissue. We immediately recommended a biopsy to determine the nature of the growth.

Histopathology: The lab results confirmed: Soft Tissue Sarcoma. This is a type of malignant cancer that arises from connective tissue (muscle, fat, nerves). It is known to be locally invasive and can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Cancer Staging with CT Imaging

Before finalizing a treatment plan, it was essential to determine whether the cancer had spread. If the lungs were extensively affected, major surgery would not be in the patient’s best interest.

The CT Scan: We performed a whole-body CT Scan. The images showed that the cancer was localized to the wing. There was no evidence of metastatic disease in the lungs or internal organs. This was the "green light" we needed to proceed with curative surgery.

The Treatment: Wing Amputation

Because sarcomas send out microscopic extensions into surrounding tissue, simply removing the visible lump is rarely sufficient—these tumors almost always recur if margins are inadequate. Achieving a true “cure” requires wide surgical margins, but on a bird’s wing, there is very little extra tissue available.

Dr. Lee recommended a wing amputation. While this may sound drastic, it is often the most humane and effective option for treating wing sarcomas and giving the bird the best chance for long-term recovery.

The Procedure: The affected wing was surgically amputated at the humerus level to ensure all cancer cells were removed.
Pain Control: The patient was placed on a robust pain management protocol, including local nerve blocks and systemic opioids, to ensure the patient woke up comfortable.

Recovery: Adapting to Life on One Wing

Naturally, owners may be concerned about their bird’s quality of life after amputation. While this is a valid concern, amputation was the only viable option, and parrots are climbers rather than migratory flyers, allowing them to adapt well.

The patient recovered remarkably well. The patient remained in an e-collar (cone) for a short period to prevent the patient from picking at the sutures. Within days, the patient was adapting to the patient's new center of gravity. Post-operative checks confirmed the site healed beautifully.

The patient is now back home in Brooklyn. The patient climbs the patient's cage, plays with toys, and interacts with the patient's family just as the patient did before. The only difference is that the patient is now cancer-free.

Why Specialized Avian Oncology Matters

At Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic, our approach is proactive. By combining biopsy, CT staging, and decisive surgery, we gave the conure a second chance at life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can a bird be happy without a wing?

Absolutely. Companion parrots spend most of their time climbing, walking, and perching. They adapt very quickly to the loss of a wing. In fact, many birds who were in pain from a heavy tumor become more active after amputation because the source of discomfort is gone.

What causes cancer in birds?

The causes are often unknown, just like in humans. Genetics, environmental factors, and age play a role. However, prompt attention to any new lump is key.

Is a CT scan necessary for a lump?

We highly recommend it. A CT scan tells us two things: exactly how deep the tumor goes (helping us plan the surgery) and whether the cancer has spread. Operating on a bird that already has cancer in its lungs puts them through unnecessary pain. The CT scan allows us to make ethical, informed decisions.

I live in Brooklyn. How do I get my bird to you after surgery?

We provide detailed discharge instructions. Your bird will likely go home in a small travel carrier to prevent them from trying to climb or flap while the incision heals. The drive from Great Neck to Brooklyn is short, and most birds travel very well when covered and kept dark.

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