Surgical Management of Acute Traumatic Lacerations in a 2-Year-Old Intact West African Dwarf Doe: Case Report

Abstract

Traumatic injuries in small ruminants represent significant welfare and economic concerns, particularly when associated with extensive tissue loss and haemorrhage. This report describes the successful surgical management of a severe acute traumatic laceration involving the lateral thoracic musculature in a West African Dwarf goat. The doe presented with a large avulsion wound affecting the lateral thoracic muscles, extending cranially to the region between the forelimbs, and accompanied by substantial blood loss. Initial first aid administered by the owner included wound coverage with clean cloth and application of Gentian violet. Clinical examination revealed a relatively clean wound with exposed musculature and partial rib cartilage involvement. Surgical intervention involved aseptic wound preparation, debridement, lavage, layered closure, and appropriate postoperative care including antimicrobial therapy and analgesia. Healing progressed without complications, and the animal recovered uneventfully. This case highlights the effectiveness of prompt surgical intervention and appropriate postoperative management in achieving favourable outcomes under field condition.