Successful medical and surgical management of traumatic brain injury and depressed parietal fractures in a Saker falcon ( Falco cherrug )

Abstract A 6‐year‐old, female, Saker falcon ( Falco cherrug ) was evaluated following traumatic injuries from a bobcat. The patient had a traumatic brain injury (TBI), neurologic impairment, skull fractures, an oronasal fistula and a ruptured left globe. The patient was hospitalised, and a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed. This confirmed depressed fractures of the left parietal bone and disruption of the nasal cavity. Surgery was performed in cooperation with a veterinary neurologist for removal of the fracture fragments and abscess debridement. The patient remained hospitalised following surgery for medical management and was discharged after 53 days. A repeat CT scan showed successful removal of the bone fragments, but significant chronic sinus damage. She remains under monitoring for management of chronic sinus disease, but has otherwise regained normal neurologic function, behaviour and flight. This case represents successful medical and surgical management of TBI and skull fractures in a raptor.