Compartment syndrome of the muscles of mastication in a working dog following a traumatic training incident

Objective To describe acute compartment syndrome (CS) of the muscles of mastication in a working dog associated with a traumatic training event. Case Summary A 2.5‐year‐old male Belgian Malinois was evaluated for acute blindness, severe diffuse swelling of the head, and inability to close the jaw following a traumatic incident during a bite training drill. During the exercise, the maxillary canine teeth were locked on a bite sleeve. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head and ocular system identified diffuse muscle swelling and hyperintensity, most severe in the muscles of mastication. Ocular abnormalities were not identified. Rhabdomyolysis, CS, and indirect optic nerve injury were supported by measurement of increased intramuscular pressure. Bilateral decompressive fasciotomies over the masseter and temporalis muscles resulted in immediate and marked resolution of the swelling and jaw movement. Blindness, however, did not resolve. New or Unique Information Provided CS involving the muscles of mastication may occur as a complication of bite training and may result in irreversible and even life‐threatening complications. Emergent decompressive fasciotomy is indicated to reverse swelling; however, visual deficits may not resolve.