Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

As reptiles are becoming more common as patients in veterinary clinics, there is a need for creating new procedures regarding the care of exotic pets. The aim of this study was to develop a wound care routine adapted to reptiles, which can be used independently by a veterinary nurse due to the absence of prescription drugs or surgical techniques. The study was conducted by compiling the available research regarding wound care in reptiles, as well as research from related fields.

The result indicates that polyurethane films and chlorhexidine-alcohol may advantageously be used on these patients. Hydrocolloid dressings and silver sulfadiazine dressings have adverse effects on wound healing and should not be used routinely in reptiles. Silver sulfadiazine is effective in contaminated wounds in risk of infection, but due to its cytotoxic properties medical honey could be a better option when an antimicrobial agent is required. The results from this literature study also show the importance of an accurate ambient temperature for optimal wound healing.