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Functional Imaging of Auditory Cortex in Adult Cats using High-field fMRI
Published on: February 19, 2014
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Cat bite: an injury not to underestimate
Amin Kheiran1, Vishal Palial1, Rebecca Rollett2
1Leicester Orthopaedics, Department of Hand Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
Journal of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery
|July 10, 2019
Summary
Prompt treatment of cat bites, especially to the hand and wrist, is crucial. Delayed presentation significantly increases the risk of severe complications, including amputation, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Domestic cat bites are common injuries.
- While often minor, delayed treatment can lead to severe outcomes.
- Cat bites to the hand and wrist pose unique challenges due to complex anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of delayed presentation on the outcomes of cat bites to the hand and wrist.
- To identify risk factors for severe complications.
- To establish optimal treatment timelines.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 20 cat bite cases to the hand and wrist (2014-2018).
- Data collected included demographics, injury site, microbiology, treatment, and outcomes.
- Patients were divided into two groups based on presentation within or after 48 hours.
Main Results:
- Delayed presentation (Group B) was associated with significantly longer hospital stays (9.2 vs 3.4 days) and increased need for multiple surgeries (78% vs. minimal in Group A).
- Complications included septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, necrotizing fasciitis, and deep collections.
- Amputations occurred in 4 patients; index finger and flexor tendon sheath infections were common.
- Pasteurella species identified in 35% of infected wounds.
Conclusions:
- Delayed presentation of cat bites to the hand and wrist significantly increases morbidity and the likelihood of complex surgical interventions, including amputation.
- Prompt medical attention within 48 hours is essential for optimal outcomes.
- Immunocompromised individuals and those with diabetic neuropathy are at higher risk for severe complications.
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