Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
A simplified method for stabilization of flail chest injuries in small animals.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 1995
- Authors:
- McAnulty, J F
- Affiliation:
- Department of Surgical Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
In this study, two dogs and one cat with serious chest injuries called flail chest injuries were treated using a new method that involved placing a special splint and stitching the affected ribs together. This technique was quick and didn't require much handling of the animals, which is important for their comfort. After the treatment, all three pets showed better breathing, and the splint was left in place for two of them to hold the ribs steady. There were no signs of infection or other problems from this treatment. Overall, the method worked well for stabilizing their injuries.
Abstract
Two dogs and one cat with flail chest injuries were treated by a new technique of external thoracic wall stabilization using a single circumcostal suture for each affected rib and a splint device. Application of the splint device was quick and required minimal manipulation of the patient. Stabilization of the flail chest resulted in improved respiration in each animal. The splint device was left in place in two of the animals as the sole means of rib fixation. No evidence of infection or other adverse effects were noted with this technique.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7773759/