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Basilar skull fractures in three horses
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|February 1, 1980
Summary
Basilar skull fractures in horses are often fatal, with two of three cases resulting in death within 48 hours. The surviving horse experienced severe neurological deficits, leading to euthanasia.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Equine Surgery
- Veterinary Radiology
Background:
- Basilar skull fractures are uncommon but severe injuries in horses.
- Understanding the clinical presentation and outcomes is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Three horses presented with clinical signs suggestive of basilar skull fractures.
- Epistaxis (nosebleeds) followed by ataxia (incoordination) were consistent signs observed.
- Fractures involved the basi-occipital bone and ventral calvarium.
Findings:
- High mortality rate associated with basilar skull fractures, with two horses dying within 48 hours.
- The surviving horse developed a significant locomotion deficit requiring euthanasia.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical signs and radiographic evaluation of guttural pouches.
Implications:
- Basilar skull fractures carry a grave prognosis in horses.
- Early recognition of clinical signs like epistaxis and ataxia is vital.
- Radiographic imaging of guttural pouches aids in diagnosing these complex fractures.