Angel wing is the result of the plumage developing at a faster rate than the musculoskeletal structures of the wing. The immature musculoskeletal structures of the wing are not strong enough to support the weight of the blood-filled quills of the rapidly developing plumage. The weight of the developing feathers increasingly pulls the wing into a deformed position.
This condition arises in juvenile birds as the primary wing feathers start to develop. Species commonly affected include are ducks, geese and swans, also known as the Anseriformes.
This condition may be caused by either a genetic predisposition, inappropriate diets, or a combination of the too. Often diets containing excessive protein and carbohydrates result in inappropriately rapid feather development (i.e. ducks on chicken feed). Other causes include deficiencies in manganese, vitamin E, or vitamin D3.
Patients develop either unilateral or bilateral drooping of the wing at the wrists and elbows with outward (valgus) rotation of the wing past the wrists.
While often diagnosed with physical examination alone, radiographs may be recommended to rule out wing fractures.
In juvenile birds, ild cases often can be treated with corrective wing trimming and dietary improvement. For more severe cases, placement of a splint or corrective bandage to hold the wing in a correct position for 3-5 days. This condition become permanent once birds mature and render the patient unable to fly. Surgical correction can be performed to either amputate the end of the wing to attempt to fixate the wrists, however this approach is seldom recommended due to low success rates and complications. Diet should be corrected regardless of age. Dietary protein levels between 8 and 15% are recommended during the first three weeks of life in slow-growing waterfowl.
If caught early, the prognosis is good. Those with permanent deformities will be incapable of flight, but can live fairly good lives despite this handicap.
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