Abstract
Objective The aim of this study was to summarize outcomes and complications of gunshot fracture
management in small animals.
Study Design Review of cats and dogs with radiographically confirmed acute gunshot fractures,
presenting data on signalment, fracture location, fracture management (surgical vs. non-surgical, type of surgical repair), fracture comminution, extent of soft tissue
trauma, postoperative complication and overall outcome. A poor outcome was defined
as patient death, major postoperative complication or limb amputation (both as primary
treatment or secondary to postoperative complications).
Results Ninety-seven animals with 137 acute gunshot-induced fractures were identified. There
were 21 (15.3%) maxillofacial, 16 (11.7%) vertebral column, 8 (5.8%) rib, 56 (40.9%)
distal long bone (below stifle/cubital joint) and 36 (26.3%) proximal long bone (at
or above stifle/cubital joint) fractures. Overall, 20/37 cases with sufficient follow-up
details incurred a poor fracture outcome. Extensive soft tissue trauma at the fracture
site was associated with an increased likelihood of poor outcome. The most common
poor outcomes were primary limb amputations (7 cases) and postoperative complications
(3 osteomyelitis/surgical site infections, 4 delayed/non-unions).
Conclusion Gunshot fractures overall have high likelihood of poor outcome. Severe soft tissue
injury is associated with complications. Mitigating poor outcome likely requires early
aggressive wound management.
Keywords
gunshot - fractures - postoperative complications - dogs - cats - outcome
