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 consi stent with incorrect application of a bandage. Methods-Medical records for dogs and cars referred to the Queen's Veterinar y School Hospital with limb wounds between 1995 and 1999 were reviewed for clinical history and referring veterinary surgeons' reports, indicating tha t the injury was directly related to the application of a bandage to the li mb. Results-The indications for bandage application included 2 postoperative cr uciate ligament ruptures, 2 lacerations, 3 internal fixations, an onychecto my, a shoulder dislocation, a dog bite, and a tendon strain. None of the pa tients had other body systems involved or underlying or concurrent diseases . Five different types of bandage were described (support, Robert Jones, pr essure, splint, and Velpeau), and no particular age or breed was overrepres ented. Of the 11 animals, 5 required full-thickness skin grafts, 3 had to h ave digits amputated, and 2 required limb amputations. Nine animals survive d, 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 o f 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 Th e American College of Veterinary Surgeons.