ePoster
Presentation Description
Institution: Royal Darwin Hospital - Northern Territory, Australia
Purpose: Unusual animal injuries and associated infections in the Northern Territory (NT) present multifaceted challenges due to the region's diverse wildlife and rugged landscapes. This series explores the spectrum of uncommon animal-related injuries encountered in the NT and our experience with their management.
Methodology: 25 patients were identified in the last 12 months who had encountered an uncommon animal injury. The animals involved included freshwater crocodiles, saltwater crocodiles, penetrating stingray injury, spider bites, catfish and penetrating boar tusk injuries.
Results: The patients each had samples sent for microscopy, culture and sensitivity and a retrospective review of their surgical and non-operative management. Management was undertaken through early debridement and washout with healing primarily by secondary intention. Freshwater animals were likely to return samples with aeromonas species, bacillus species, filamentous fungi and aspergillus species. The boar tusk injury grew stenotrophomonas which was treated with minocycline and augmentin duo forte. The other injuries were treated as per the institution antibiotic protocols including clindamycin, cefazolin, ciprofloxacin and albendazole. This was driven in conjunction with an experienced infectious disease team.
Conclusion: Geographical isolation amplifies the complexity of managing such injuries often contributing to delayed presentations. Understanding the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and early management of these injuries and associated infections is crucial for healthcare providers in mitigating risks and optimizing patient outcomes in a rural context.
Presenters
Authors
Authors
Dr Caroline Lam -