NL Journal of Veterinary and Animal Nutrition

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Ozone Therapy for Wound Management in Avian Species Surgical Affections of Eye in Cattle – A Clinical Study (24 Cows)

Author(s) : Deepika A, Gurunathan N*, Jithesh Thottiyil, Malladi Mahalakshmi, Tina Roshini S, Vigneswari M, Aruljothi N.

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Abstract

Wound management in avian species presents unique challenges due to their delicate anatomy, high metabolic rates, and susceptibility to infection and self-mutilation. While conventional approaches form cornerstone of therapy, the search for effective adjunctive modalities is ongoing. Ozone therapy, the medical application of a precisely controlled oxygen-ozone mixture, is emerging as a promising integrative tool for avian wound care. This review synthesizes the current understanding of ozone's multi-modal mechanisms relevant to wound healing, including its potent antimicrobial (bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal), anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and tissue regenerative properties. These actions derive from a controlled "hormetic" oxidative stress that upregulates endogenous antioxidant defenses, modulates cytokine cascades, stimulates growth factor release, and enhances microcirculation. While largely extrapolated from mammalian studies, these biochemical effects hold theoretical potential for improving healing outcomes in birds. Clinically, ozone therapy has been anecdotally applied to various avian wound types, most notably chronic pododermatitis ("bumblefoot"), traumatic injuries, surgical dehiscence, and abscesses, aiming to reduce infection, control inflammation, and accelerate granulation and epithelialization. Common administration routes include topical application (ozonated water/oils), local infiltration, rectal insufflation for systemic effects, and ozone bagging, all requiring meticulous technique. Crucially, direct inhalation of ozone gas is strictly contraindicated due to severe respiratory toxicity, necessitating stringent safety protocols. Despite its theoretical benefits and anecdotal successes, the evidence base for ozone therapy in avian wound management remains critically limited, predominantly comprising case reports and expert opinions. A significant lack of standardized protocols, controlled clinical trials, and species-specific pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data hinders definitive conclusions on efficacy and optimal application. Future research must focus on rigorous, randomized studies, standardized dosage guidelines, and objective outcome measures to validate its therapeutic utility and establish its responsible integration into evidence-based avian veterinary practice. Keywords: Ozone therapy, avian, Wound healing, Wound management, Pododermatitis, Antimicrobial, Anti- Inflammatory, Regeneration, Exotic pets.

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