Presenting problem: Shell Fractures in Chelonians

Understanding shell fractures
Shell fractures are one of the more common presentations of Chelonia to the private exotic animal practitioner. Shell fractures are frequently caused by vehicular trauma, lawn mowers, predation by dogs and raccoons, or drops from balconies or porches. I have even seen one case in which a person tried to use a tortoise as a “step stool”.

Often seen as a “chronic” issue, having occurred days before they present, shell fractures need to be treated as an emergency situation and dealt with both as a localized and as a systemic problem.

The skin is the barrier between . . .


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