Bear maulings treated in Calgary, Alberta: Their management and sequelae.

BACKGROUND

Between 1994 and 2005, seven patients underwent surgery at the Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, Alberta, for injuries sustained in bear maulings. The purpose of the present study was to document these cases and add to the literature on the management and the potential complications of bear attacks.

METHODS

Data were collected retrospectively from charts.

RESULTS

Seven patients were treated for injuries ranging from lacerations and puncture wounds to fractures and avulsed tissue. On average, patients underwent three operations and spent 22 days in hospital. Mean time from attack to arrival at the trauma centre was 19 h. Irrigation, debridement and intravenous antibiotics did not prevent wound infections in two patients. Six of seven patients developed acute stress disorder, and one of these patients went on to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Complications ranged from infection to pulmonary embolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Bear attacks result in a spectrum of injuries. Infections and psychiatric disorders are common sequelae.