FLUID-DYNAMICS OF INTRAOSSEOUS FLUID ADMINISTRATION IN BIRDS

The fluid dynamics associated with intraosseous cannulation have not been described in avian species. This study documents the fluid dynamics of substances injected into the medullary cavity of clinically normal adult pigeons (Columba livia). A radioactive blood pool agent (Tc-99m-DTPA) was administered via an intraosseous catheter, and its distribution in the body was recorded with a gamma camera. When a bolus of Tc-99m-DTPA was administered into the distal ulna. > 50% of the administered dose passed from the ulna to the systemic circulation within 30 sec. In a second trial, an infusion pump administered Tc-99m-DTPA in a lactated Ringer's solution at 10 ml/hr for 2 hr. Radioisotope passed into the systemic circulation at 9.85 ml/hr, paralleling the rate of fluid administration. These data suggest that intraosseous fluid administration is a viable alterative to intravenous catheterization in avian patients.