Multidisciplinary reconstruction of complex cranio-scalp trauma in a patient with a domestic lion attack

TL;DR

A 17-year-old boy survived a severe lion attack through multidisciplinary medical care, including surgery and postoperative treatment.

Contribution

This case highlights the effectiveness of a collaborative approach in treating complex craniofacial trauma from animal attacks.

Findings

Timely surgical intervention and multidisciplinary care led to preserved neurological function and successful wound healing.

Postoperative care including antibiotics and prophylaxis reduced infection risks and improved recovery outcomes.

Abstract

Severe animal attacks by large predators, such as lions, are rare but devastating, often resulting in life-threatening injuries. These cases require immediate surgical intervention because of the complexity and severity of the injury. This report describes the multidisciplinary management of an adolescent who sustained extensive trauma following a pet-lion attack.

A 17-year-old male was brought to the emergency department by his father after a pet lion attack. He sustained severe injuries to the scalp, chest, arms, and face, along with a depressed skull fracture and pneumocephalus. He underwent emergent surgery involving dural repair with autologous temporalis fascia and cranial reconstruction using titanium mesh by the neurosurgery team, alongside extensive soft tissue debridement and layered closure by plastic surgeons. Postoperative care included broad-spectrum antibiotics, tetanus and rabies prophylaxis, and early physical therapy. The patient remained hospitalized for 5 days, during which he showed steady improvement and was discharged with preserved neurological function and well-healed surgical sites.

Animal attacks pose unique challenges in trauma care due to the complexity of injuries, high risk of infection, and the need for extensive reconstructive procedures. This case highlights the importance of a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach for managing such injuries and achieving optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Complex serious traumas in different locations of the body, especially craniofacial trauma. In this case, timely intervention and coordinated care resulted in a favorable outcome, with preserved neurological function and successful wound healing. This underscores the importance of rapid, comprehensive treatment and highlights the need for preventive measures to reduce the risk of such devastating injuries.

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