Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Thoracic bite wounds and associated internal injury in 11 dogs and 1 cat.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1984
- Authors:
- McKiernan, B C et al.
Plain-English summary
In a study involving 11 dogs and 1 cat that suffered from bite wounds to the chest, many showed signs of serious internal injuries, such as air trapped under the skin, lung bruising, air in the chest cavity, and broken ribs. The animals received treatment that included cleaning and repairing the wounds, major surgery on the chest, or draining fluid from the chest area. Unfortunately, three of the pets did not survive; one died from a different injury, while two others passed away due to complications related to their chest injuries.
Abstract
In 11 dogs and 1 cat with thoracic bite wounds and associated internal injury, the most common radiographic findings were subcutaneous emphysema, pulmonary infiltrates (contusion), pneumothorax, and rib separation. Treatment consisted of simple wound cleansing/repair, extensive thoracic surgery, or pleural drainage. Three of the 12 animals died or were euthanatized as a result of their bite wounds, 1 from a nonthoracic injury and 2 as a result of pleural and/or parenchymal disease.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6715227/