Thoracic bite wounds and associated internal injury in 11 dogs and 1 cat.

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.