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