Trauma crânio-encefálico em cães: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Head trauma occurs frequently in veterinary medicine, and with its high morbidity and mortality the traumatic brain injury can cause devastating consequences on the animal. High intracranial pressure is common in head traumas, and it is considered an important cause of death due to the exhaustion of intracranial complacence and disruption of the encephalic pressure auto-regulation. These patients may present a variety of clinical-neurologic signs, but the initial assessment should be focused on identifying imminently life-threatening abnormalities. Hypovolemia and hypoxemia should be immediately recognized and corrected since they are highly associated with increase in the intracranial pressure and higher mortality rates. After the animal is stable, complete neurologic assessment should be performed with the help of the Modified Glasgow Coma Scale. Early treatment is a critical point to obtain patient recovery. This treatment is based in human management, with guidelines created towards maintaining an adequate encephalic perfusion, correction of hypoxia and hypotension, and control of intracranial pressure. Complementary approaches, like nursing measures and adequate nutritional support, are essential. Complications may occur in a time close to the trauma, or after months or years. This paper aims at reviewing the physiopathology, emergency approach, monitoring and adequate treatment associated with traumatic brain injury.