Turtle shell fracture repair : a comparative study of three different techniques

Abstract

Trauma related injuries, particularly shell fractures, are one of the most common reasons wild turtles present to veterinarians. A wild Blanding's Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) and Painted Turtle (Chrysemys picta), as well as a pet African Spurred Tortoise (Geochelone sulcata) presented for vastly different carapace fractures that were treated using completely different techniques. The three main methods used in these shell fracture repairs involved BioSISt® (a specialized scaffolding film), orthopedic wires, and Doxirobe® (an antibiotic impregnated gel), in addition to different bandaging materials. Each turtle was monitored to ensure adequate healing and opposition of any loose shell fragments. Antibiotics, analgesia, and supplemental feeding were provided as needed. Due to the detailed evaluation of each turtle and the appropriate, though different, methods of repair, each turtle began to heal successfully.