A Pictorial Presentation of the Surgical Technique for Abdominal Implantation of Transmitters into Birds
(Note: For details, please see: "
Protocol for the Abdominal Implantation of Radio and Satellite Transmitters Into Birds")Video available of passing the trochar and inserting the transmitter. Click
HERE.We use the technique developed by: Korschgen,C.E., K.P. Kenow, A. Gendron-Fitzpatrick, W.L. Green, and F.J. Dein. 1996. Implanting intra-abdominal radiotransmitters with external whip antennas in ducks. J. Wildl. Manage. 60(1):132-137.
(NOTE: These pictures are from various projects and show two types of transmitters, several species of birds and several species of veterinarians)
First, catch a bird.
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We've done implantation surgeries in tents, shacks, offices, workshops, and on boats |
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We now intubate ALL birds, even though the surgery is a short one. This has helped to prevent aspiration of fluids that drain from the crop and allows more efficient assisted respiration if the bird gets into trouble. |
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I prefer isoflurane inhalation anesthesia for the surgery. Monitoring devices vary by the location and availability of transportation, space, and electrical supply. I use a Doppler ultrasound device to provide an audible signal of the heart beat. |
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The surgical site is aseptically prepared. The use of a transparent plastic drape is advantageous, as it allows the anesthetist to monitor the bird more easily |
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Once the incision is made into the right abdominal air sac, a trochar (I use udder infusion tubes) is passed into the bird from the outside and out the incision. (Note: This picture shows a digital thermometer placed into the cloaca. It is much safer to use an electronic thermometer that has a soft sensor). |
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The wire antenna is passed through the trochar and an assistant (lower hand) slowly withdraws the antenna as the surgeon places the transmitter (this one is a VHF radio) into the right abdominal air sac. The incision is closed in two layers, and a single suture is placed through the antenna collar, fixing the transmitter in place. |
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This is a radiograph of a satellite transmitter that improperly rotated 90 degrees (a metal leg band can also be seen). The transmitter appears as a printed circuit board on the right. Two batteries are seen on the left. |
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Tufted puffin
Harlequin duck |
When the transmitter is properly placed, the antenna exits slightly below and to the side of the tail, and recurves dorsally and anteriorly. This means that, when the bird rests on the surface of the water, the antenna extends vertically and is out of the water. Very long antennas may droop considerably. |
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Note the absence of inflammation at the site of the antenna exit from the abdomen. |
These are pictures of a spectacled eider recaptured eight days following surgery.
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The suture material is still visible in the abdomen. |
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