This paper was aimed at evaluating two changes in the external fixators for osteosynthesis of the humeral fracture that induce the correction of the humeral fracture in pigeons. The reduction of diaphyseal fracture was made with an intramedulary pin associated to another perpendicular one inserted into the distal segment (Group A - GA); in the Group B (GB) an additional pin was used in the proximal fragment. All the pigeons were evaluated clinically and radiographically up to 60 days, except for four of each group which were submitted to euthanasia at 15, 22, 29 and 36 days for the macro and microscope exams. The flight test was successful in all pigeons. The bone calus was radiografically visible only in the GA; the mean time and the standard deviation for flight was 32.25 ± 6.5 days for the GA and 39.8 ± 3.83 for the GB. The mean time and standard deviation for fracture healing was 36 ± 0 days in the GA and 34 ± 3.4 in the GB. The two types of external fixator evaluated were efficient to stabilized the fracture site allowing complete consolidation and return to function. The use of the external fixator with two perpendicular pins provides more stability at the fracture site although it is necessary more time for the surgery procedure.
birds; fracture; humerus; fixator; external
