A Case Report: Wound Management and Care of a Border Collie

A three-year-old female Border Collie presented to our veterinary clinic carried by its owner. The dog had sustained a deep, lacerated wound to its neck, inflicted by an unknown assailant. The wound was severely contaminated with purulent exudate, matting the fur in the affected area. The dog appeared unwell; its demeanour was subdued and it was exhibiting signs of pain. A preliminary examination revealed a body temperature of 39°C (102.2°F), indicating a febrile response. Initial blood tests revealed leukocytosis (elevated white blood cell count) and erythrocytopenia (reduced red blood cell count), consistent with an inflammatory response and anemia. The immediate priority was to stabilize the patient and address the severe neck wound.

Wound Assessment and Initial Treatment:

The extent of the injury was immediately apparent. The deep wound, extending several centimeters, posed a significant risk of infection and potentially life-threatening complications. Fortunately, vital structures such as the carotid artery and jugular vein appeared to be spared. However, the advanced stage of infection, evident from the copious purulent discharge and foul odor, necessitated prompt and aggressive intervention.

The initial steps involved meticulous preparation of the surgical site. The surrounding fur was carefully clipped, ensuring a clean and accessible wound perimeter. A thorough debridement of necrotic tissue and removal of the purulent material were performed using sterile saline solution and gentle surgical instruments. The wound was then irrigated copiously with a broad-spectrum antiseptic solution to further minimize the bacterial load.

Anesthesia and Surgical Intervention:

Given the depth and extent of the wound, surgical closure was necessary to facilitate healing and reduce the risk of further infection. For this procedure, general anesthesia was deemed the safest and most effective approach. While various local and regional anesthetic techniques exist (e.g., surface, infiltration, nerve block, epidural), the complexity of the wound and the need for meticulous tissue handling necessitated general anesthesia. The decision was made to utilize a balanced anesthetic protocol, including a pre-anesthetic sedative to minimize stress and facilitate smooth induction, followed by intravenous administration of a suitable anesthetic agent (in this case, a commonly used injectable anesthetic with a favourable safety profile). Careful monitoring of vital parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation) was maintained throughout the procedure.

Hemostasis and Wound Closure:

During the surgical repair, achieving hemostasis (stopping bleeding) was paramount. Careful dissection and precise ligation of bleeding vessels were performed to minimize blood loss and prevent complications. Various surgical techniques were employed to control bleeding, including the use of electrocautery and pressure to affected areas. A combination of surgical techniques was chosen, tailored to address the specific nature and location of bleeding.

The wound itself was closed using a combination of interrupted and continuous suture patterns. Interrupted sutures provided precise control of tissue apposition, while continuous sutures offered a rapid and efficient method for closing larger areas. The choice of suture material considered factors such as tensile strength, biocompatibility and absorbability. The goal was to provide sufficient tissue support while minimizing tissue reaction. The final suture pattern provided optimal wound closure, reducing tension and promoting rapid healing.

Post-operative Management:

Following successful closure, the patient received post-operative analgesics to manage pain and inflammation. Broad-spectrum antibiotics were administered intravenously, followed by oral antibiotics, to combat existing and prevent future infection. The wound site was carefully monitored for signs of infection, swelling, or dehiscence (wound opening). Regular dressing changes were performed, maintaining a clean and dry environment to promote healing. The use of an Elizabethan collar was implemented to prevent the dog from licking or scratching the wound, further minimizing the risk of complications.

The patient remained hospitalized for observation for 24 hours and then returned home to continue receiving care and antibiotics. Subsequent monitoring revealed uneventful healing. Suture removal was performed seven days post-operatively, and the wound demonstrated excellent healing with minimal scarring.

Long-term Considerations and Prognosis:

While the Border Collie recovered fully from its injuries, the owner reported some behavioural changes. Previously a highly energetic and playful dog, the pet showed some signs of increased anxiety and fear, likely related to the traumatic event. This highlighted the significant impact of trauma and the potential psychological consequences, even after full physical recovery. The long-term prognosis is excellent, with careful observation and ongoing attention to potential behavioural adjustments.

This case emphasizes the crucial role of prompt veterinary intervention in the management of severe wounds. Early diagnosis, aggressive debridement, meticulous wound closure, and appropriate post-operative care are essential to achieving optimal healing and minimizing complications. Owners should be aware of the potential for psychological consequences in animals that have endured traumatic injuries and seek veterinary guidance if behavioural changes occur.