Surgical Application of a 3D-Printed Upper Beak Prosthesis in a Pacific parrotlet (Forpus coelestis): A Preliminary Case Report

Abstract

Severe beak deformities or loss in psittacine birds significantly impair essential functions such as feeding, preening, and climbing. This case report presents the first documented surgical implantation of a 3D-printed upper beak prosthesis in a Pacific parrotlet (Forpus coelestis), a small parrot species that presents unique anatomical and mechanical challenges. The patient, a female parrotlet, had suffered complete upper beak loss following a traumatic injury. A patient-specific prosthetic beak was digitally designed based on computed tomography imaging of conspecific anatomy, then fabricated using stereolithography 3D printing and coated with dental composite resin to enhance biocompatibility and durability. Surgical fixation was achieved using a titanium orthodontic miniscrew, transcranial stainless steel wire, and composite resin sealing, with the procedure completed within approximately 15 minutes to minimize anesthetic risk. Postoperatively, the bird began eating soft food independently by day 3 and resumed functional behaviors including food manipulation and perching. Long-term monitoring revealed stable prosthesis integration for one year. At that point, granulation tissue developed at the interface, leading to gradual loosening and the elective removal of the prosthesis. This case highlights the feasibility and clinical potential of using 3D-printed prosthetics for beak reconstruction in small avian species. The approach provides a reproducible framework that can be adapted to both smaller and larger parrots, offering a valuable treatment option for traumatic beak loss across a range of bird species. It also underscores the role of digital fabrication in advancing avian reconstructive surgery and improving animal welfare.