A novel case of tracheal injury secondary to gunshot trauma in a white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum).

Abstract

To describe a case of tracheal injury secondary to gunshot trauma in a rhinoceros. 5-year-old female white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). The rhinoceros was found alive with an apparent bullet entry wound cranial to the left shoulder. The rhinoceros was agitated and had bilateral epistaxis and increased respiratory noise. Immobilization of the animal facilitated closer examination and initiation of medical therapy. Radiographs obtained of the neck region at this first examination were nondiagnostic. Subsequent immobilization events allowed for further diagnostics and treatment. Initial treatment included a broad-spectrum antibiotic and a corticosteroid. Five days following the injury, the rhinoceros was considered stable, and the animal was immobilized to investigate the cause of the epistaxis and respiratory signs. Tracheoscopy revealed a full-thickness penetrating wound in the mid to caudal region of the trachea, and the surface of a metallic projectile was viewed within the wound. Medical treatment was continued and the rhinoceros was managed conservatively. At 14 days, radiographs of the neck made with a more powerful unit revealed tissue emphysema dorsal to the trachea. A subsequent tracheoscopy 54 days after injury revealed a granulated wound. Follow-up at 4 years after injury determined that the rhinoceros was reported to be behaving normally and had successfully calved. Gunshot wounds associated with poaching are a prevalent problem in rhinoceros in Africa. Although more aggressive therapy including surgery may likely be considered in zoo or domestic animals, limited conservative treatment was successful in this wild-managed rhinoceros.