Airway injury associated with cervical bite wounds in dogs and cats: 56 cases

C. J. Jordan; Z. J. Halfacree; M. S. Tivers

doi:10.3415/VCOT-12-01-0013

Veterinary and Comparative Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Inhaltsverzeichnis

Vet Comp Orthop Traumatol 2013; 26(02): 89-93
DOI: 10.3415/VCOT-12-01-0013

Original Research

Schattauer GmbH

Airway injury associated with cervical bite wounds in dogs and cats: 56 cases

Autor*innen

C. J. Jordan

¹Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

²Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists, The Granary, Bunstead Barns, Hursley, Winchester, United Kingdom
Z. J. Halfacree

¹Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom
M. S. Tivers

¹Veterinary Clinical Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

Abstract

Summary

Objective: To investigate the frequency of airway injury and damage to other vital structures associated with cervical bite wounds in dogs and cats and the implications for management and outcome.

Methods: A retrospective search of electronic patient records was used to identify dogs and cats suffering cervical bite wounds that were presented to a large multidisciplinary veterinary hospital over a four year period.

Results: Complete records were available for 55 animals, with one animal suffering two separate injuries. Fourteen animals (25%) had injuries to vital structures, including airway injury in nine (17%) which was surgically confirmed and treated in six (11%). Airway injuries were associated with either subcutaneous or mediastinal emphysema in all affected animals. Other structures injured included the jugular vein, pharynx, oesophagus and spine. Airway injuries were treated with primary repair in five animals and a fasciomuscular patch in one. Temporary tracheostomy was performed in three animals. Median duration of hospitalisation was one day (0-19) with 53 animals (54 cases) (96%) surviving to discharge. Long-term follow-up (16-114 months) revealed that 43 of 49 animals were alive with six that died due to unrelated reasons.

Clinical significance: Cervical bite wounds are associated with significant injury to vital structures. Up to 17% of animals may have injury to their airway. Identification and treatment of airway injury is vital and was associated with an excellent outcome in six animals.

Keywords

Bite wounds - airway - trachea - Larynx - cervical

Volltext

Referenzen

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