Expanding haematoma in a lace monitor (Varanus varius)

Abstract

A captive adult male lace monitor (Varanus varius) was presented with a progressive haematoma of the right shoulder associated with a scapular fracture and arterial rupture. Conservative therapy was ineffective. Closed debridement and talc sclerodhesis effectively collapsed the haematoma; however, subsequent necrosis of the overlying skin required open debridement for resolution by 17 weeks following admission.