Multiple Skull Fractures in a Captive Fly River Turtle (Carretochelys insculpta): Diagnosis, Surgical Repair, and Medical Management

Abstract

An adult male Fly River turtle, Carretochelys insculpta, presented with dull mentation and a proptosed right eye due to severe head trauma. Injuries included rostral mandibular, left mandibular, left maxillary, and bilateral orbital fractures. The right orbital fracture was repaired immediately. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) were performed to evaluate the extent of the fractures. The left mandibular fracture was repaired with an external skeletal fixator. The rostral mandibular fracture was repaired with pins and a cerclage wire. The use of CT provided complete evaluation of the skull fractures, was a guide for surgical planning, and allowed for monitoring of fracture healing. The turtle returned to normal behavior 2 months after surgery. The fractures were either healed or almost healed 6.5 months after surgery.