Surgical management of post‐traumatic abdominal hernias in three rehabilitated microchiropteran (Vespertilionid) bats ( Nyctalus noctula and Eptesicus serotinus

Abstract

Abdominal hernias in bats are rarely reported in the literature, with most reports evaluating postmortem findings. The present study documents successful surgical management of post‐traumatic abdominal hernias in three vespertilionid bats. Three injured bats (two Nyctalus noctula and one Eptesicus serotinus ) were admitted for veterinary care after sustaining presumed trauma. Clinical examinations and radiography confirmed abdominal wall herniation with intestinal prolapse in all three cases. Surgical intervention was performed under isoflurane anaesthesia, and postoperative management involved analgesic and antibiotic therapy, with gradual feeding reintroduction and symptomatic gastrointestinal medication. All surgeries resulted in successful reduction of the hernias, with postoperative complications (abdominal distension and suture dehiscence). Post‐rehabilitation, all bats were placed into artificial hibernation for eventual release. This study focuses on a small number of cases, limiting generalisability. This report highlights the feasibility of surgical intervention for abdominal hernias in bats, contributing to the veterinary care of these protected species.