When little Popcorn, an 8-year-old Pomeranian, arrived at the Faculty of Veterinary Science’s Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (OVAH) earlier this year, her future was uncertain. She had been bitten by another dog and sustained a severe injury known as a comminuted, depressed skull fracture.
Comminuted fractures are serious bone breaks where the bone shatters into three or more pieces, usually caused by high-impact trauma. Fragments of bone were pressing against Popcorn’s brain, leaving her weak, off-balance, and at risk of seizures. Other symptoms of such a fracture may include severe pain, swelling, and lameness.
“Our team at the OVAH’s first priority was to stabilise her,” says Dr Shannon van Rooyen, surgical resident at the OVAH who was instrumental in the stabilising process and the surgical procedure. “Once she was strong enough, advanced imaging was performed to create a 3D model of her skull. From this, a custom-made titanium plate was designed and printed to fit her perfectly.”
This delicate procedure was performed by Dr van Rooyen, with guidance from specialist surgeon and head of the Small Animal Surgery Section in the Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies (CACS), Dr Adriaan Kitshoff. “During surgery, the damaged bone was carefully removed to relieve pressure on her brain, and the titanium plate was placed to reconstruct her skull and protect her from future trauma,” Dr Kitshoff explains.
Popcorn’s recovery in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital was supported day and night by the dedicated clinicians and veterinary students of the OVAH, who cared for her with patience and love.
When she was strong and healthy enough to be discharged from the hospital Dr van Rooyen arranged a little function to celebrate her braveness and strength.
“Popcorn’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and hope. It shows the power of modern veterinary medicine, the dedication of a committed team, and above all, the unbreakable bond between people and their pets,” Dr van Rooyen concluded.
Four months later, her owner, Mikaela Bester reported that Popcorn had returned to her normal activities. She is eating, playing, and enjoying life again. She remains the bright, happy companion they adore.
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The certificate of bravery that was given to Popcorn to celebrate her discharge and brave journey of resilience and strength.
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