Ischemic bandage injuries: A case series and review of the literature

Objective-To determine the prognosis and distribution of ischemic injuries caused by inappropriate bandaging of the tower limb in dogs and cats. Study Design-Retrospective clinical study. Animal Population-Eleven client-owned animals, including 9 dogs and 2 cats with a history of injuries consistent with incorrect application of a bandage. Methods-Medical records for dogs and cars referred to the Queen's Veterinary School Hospital with limb wounds between 1995 and 1999 were reviewed for clinical history and referring veterinary surgeons' reports, indicating that the injury was directly related to the application of a bandage to the limb. Results-The indications for bandage application included 2 postoperative cruciate ligament ruptures, 2 lacerations, 3 internal fixations, an onychectomy, a shoulder dislocation, a dog bite, and a tendon strain. None of the patients had other body systems involved or underlying or concurrent diseases. Five different types of bandage were described (support, Robert Jones, pressure, splint, and Velpeau), and no particular age or breed was overrepresented. Of the 11 animals, 5 required full-thickness skin grafts, 3 had to have digits amputated, and 2 required limb amputations. Nine animals survived, but only 4 became fully functional on the affected limb. Conclusions-Bandage-related injuries are potentially serious sequelae to a routine procedure. A guarded prognosis should be given when there is loss of deeper structures. Clinical Relevance-A review of bandaging principles is presented. Method of application, choice of materials, and close monitoring of the bandage are important factors in preventing iatrogenic injury. (C) Copyright 2000 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.