Laser treatment helps bite wounds heal – Case Study

Infrared light has extraordinary healing properties, and the clinical effectiveness of laser therapy has been well documented through numerous studies. Its effect is photochemical rather than thermal, as in surgical lasers. Class IV lasers, such as the K-laser which is used at Belle Mead Animal Hospital, is the most powerful laser available on the market.

We often recommend this drug free, surgery free, and pain free solution to accelerate the healing process for the patients that we treat. Following is one such example.

Case Study: Roxy

Roxy is an 8 year old Sheltie first seen by Dr. Jessica Stephens earlier this year as an emergency for bite wounds from another dog.

Roxy was initially anesthetized and her wounds flushed, cleaned, and repaired with drains placed. Her paw was sutured and bandaged, and she was given injectable antibiotics and pain medication. Roxy went home with oral antibiotics, pain medications and an e-collar.

Roxy canine patient at Belle Mead Animal Hospital

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

During her recheck of the surgery site, it was discovered significant bruising had developed. Therefore, the drains needed to stay in place for 1-2 more days.

During the next follow-up visit, it was determined Roxy had developed cellulitis, which is an infection of the wounds. She was treated with an injectable antibiotic and her wounds cultured and flushed with saline. A warm compress was applied. With a brand new bandage in place, Roxy’s owner was instructed to give warm compresses 3-4 times daily at home for 5 minutes.

Roxy canine patient Belle Mead Animal Hospital

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upon Roxy’s next recheck, Laser treatment was started on two necrotic areas of her wounds. Roxy continued to be treated for moderate cellulitis which gradually improved with further flushing, antibiotics, and continued Laser treatments.

Roxy canine patient Belle Mead Animal Hospital

 

 

 

 

 

 

By week seven, bandages had been removed, a scab had formed, and Roxy was doing great! The combination of Laser therapy combined with regular rechecks of the wound for treatment and the wonderful cooperation of the pet parent made Roxy’s recovery fantastic!

Roxy canine patient Belle Mead Animal Hospital

 

 

 

 

 

 

Recommended Reading:

The benefits of Class IV Laser Therapy for your pet

Joe Martins, DVM, Belle Mead Animal Hospital

Joe Martins, DVM, Belle Mead Animal Hospital

Joe Martins, DVM, Belle Mead Animal Hospital

This entry was posted in General Pets, Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Services and tagged , , , . Bookmark the permalink.
  • Recent Posts

  • Archives

  • Categories