Orthopedic, neurologic and urinary sequelae to severe pelvic trauma

Abstract

A six year old female intact Golden Retriever was referred to Cornell University Hospital for Animals for CT characterization and surgical correction of multiple pelvic fractures. On presentation, she was stable, but non-ambulatory and paraparetic in her pelvic limbs. The acetabular and ilial fractures were addressed surgically, and she was discharged. Three weeks later, she represented for paresis, urinary incontinence, inability to fully express her bladder, and a multidrug resistant pyelonephritis. The pyelonephritis was successfully treated with intravenous amikacin with concurrent fluid diuresis. Her paraparesis improved with rehabilitation and the use of “Toe-Up” orthotics; the urinary incontinence and bladder distension improved with time and medications. This case will highlight complications that commonly occur secondary to pelvic trauma, and the incidence of urinary tract infections associated with the use of indwelling urinary catheters.