Canine Traumatic Injury Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) are common neurological emergencies in canine patients. TBI occurs in approximately 25% of dogs presenting with blunt trauma, with motor vehicle accidents being the most common cause. Spinal cord injuries frequently result from vertebral fractures, luxations, or intervertebral disc extrusion. Both conditions require rapid assessment and aggressive management to minimize secondary injury and optimize patient outcomes. Understanding the pathophysiology of primary and secondary injury is essential for effective treatment.

Part 1: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Etiology and Epidemiology

Common causes of TBI in dogs include motor vehicle accidents (most common), falls from heights, bite wounds, blunt trauma, and gunshot wounds. In military working dogs, head injury accounts for 21% of traumatic deaths. Dogs spending time outdoors are at higher risk. Notably, canine skulls are relatively thicker than human skulls, providing some protective advantage, though severe trauma easily overcomes this protection.

Pathophysiology: Primary vs. Secondary Injury

Primary Brain Injury

Primary injury occurs immediately at the time of trauma and results from direct mechanical forces (acceleration, deceleration, torsion) applied to the cranium. Types include: parenchymal tears, vascular tearing and hemorrhage (epidural, subdural, intraparenchymal hematomas), cerebral contusions, diffuse axonal injury (most common), and skull fractures with parenchymal compression. Primary injury is largely irreversible, and treatment focuses on preventing secondary damage.