Contusion - Donkey

Definition: a contusion is in effect a severe bruise with some skin injury.

Contusions are common and often occur around the head (periorbital region) during severe colic. They are rarely a problem except where structures other than skin are involved. Secondary effects may be far more significant than the skin damage, although in the case of the eyelid there may be long-term consequences.

Contusions are usually managed by a combination of ice packs and prophylactic antibiotics.

Healing is usually uneventful but some permanent scarring can occur. Damage to underlying structures such as the eye or the bony orbit may be more serious than the wound itself.

References

• Knottenbelt, D. (2008) The principles and practice of wound mamagement In Svendsen, E.D., Duncan, J. and Hadrill, D. (2008) The Professional Handbook of the Donkey, 4th edition, Whittet Books, Chapter 9

WOUND TYPES - DONKEY

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