The successful use of a subcutaneous catheter in the management of severe subcutaneous emphysema in a dog with laryngeal crush injury and tracheostomy tube placement

Abstract

Objective

To describe the placement of a subcutaneous catheter in a dog for the management of severe subcutaneous emphysema secondary to severe laryngeal crushing injury and temporary tracheostomy tube placement.

Case Summary

A 6-year-old male neutered Kelpie suffered a severe laryngeal crushing injury following a dog attack. Case management included the placement of a temporary tracheostomy tube due to severe respiratory compromise and inspiratory dyspnea associated with the crush injury. During hospitalization, the patient developed severe subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and a pneumothorax as a complication of the laryngeal crushing injury and temporary tracheostomy. A subcutaneous catheter was placed to manage the recurrent subcutaneous emphysema while the tracheostomy stoma healed. Five months posttrauma, the dog returned to normal with mild stridor during excitement and while panting.

New or Unique Information Provided

This is the first report in veterinary medicine describing the use of a subcutaneous catheter for the management of subcutaneous emphysema secondary to laryngeal crush injury and temporary tracheostomy tube placement.