Meet Chumina

Animal Emergency Room, A “Feel Good” Blog Case to start off the new year

Patient: Chumina (No picture available)

Medical problems: Head Trauma / Jaw Fracture

Medical Terms of interest:   nystagmus, ataxic, HBC

CASE:

Chumina is a 1 year old female, 52 lb, some type of Whippet cross, presented to AER the night of Thursday Nov 4^th after being hit by a car (HBC in veterinary terminology).    

When presented Chumina had the following neurological signs: ATAXIA - decreased ability to ambulate normally, NYSTAGMUS – rhythmic, involuntary movement of the eyes, decreased mentation, fixed pupils (not responsive to light or dark) and obvious trauma to the head – scrapes and bruises.  All these support a diagnosis of head trauma. 

Additionally exam and radiographs confirmed fracture to the left lower jaw.  This is a significant complication from a management standpoint because it possible could limit the ability of the owner to give oral medications and manage the case at home. 

TREATMENT:  

Initial treatment was IV fluids, hyperosmotics – drugs that pull fluid out of tissues – in this case we were treating brain swelling, antibiotics and aggressive pain medications.   The primary goal was to stabilize this patient and provide pain relief.

Overnight Chumina regressed into being mostly non responsive.  This was frustrating for us because she was not stabilizing.   By re evalauting Chumina’s condition, and current status, the original treatment plan was modified to fit her current status, as well as fit the treatment budget.   

Nice ending to this story, during the day, overnight, and next day, she progressed nicely – i.e. stages:    (1.)  started to hold her head up, brief periods of being aware of her surroundings,  (2)  improving neurological signs – i.e. pupils became responsive and nystagmus progressively resolved over 24 hours,  (3)  being awake for periods of time, was able to be carried outside and able to stand and urinate by herself,  (4)  started eating and taking oral medications, thankfully the broken jaw was stable enough without surgery.  When released Chumina was comfortable, fully aware, eating well, on oral medications and able to walk for short periods with support.

What made this case especially nice is that as she became more responsive it became apparent that Chumina was truly a sweetheart, holding her head up, licking our hands, wagging her tail and progressively becoming more warm and friendly as we got to know her. A true joy to treat and work with.

RESOLUTION:    

Talked to the owner after two days and Chumina was doing very well – still eating, comfortable and was now able to walk outside for limited distances on her own.   To date, the owner shares that Chumina is 100%.   A happy ending for all!