Surgical repair of mandibular fractures with their sequelae in equine and calves

Abstract EN

In the present investigation ; the types, clinical features, and treatment of 24 animals (12 horses, 4 donkeys and 8 calves), which sustained mandibular fractures were described.

Surgical repair was practical and with successful results in most cases.

Restoration of individual occlusion and minimal periodontal lesions were obtained.

Three fracture types, involving the body of the mandible, were recognized.

Bilateral transverse fractures (6 horses, 3 donkeys and 6 calves) which, were often repaired with orthopedic wires in foals and calves or wires, or bone plate in adult horses and donkeys.

Unilateral fractures of the mandible (two horses, one donkey and two calves), which were managed conservatively except one horse need an intra-mandibular wire fixation.

Symphyseal or para-symphyseal fractures (4 horses), which were managed by inter-dental wiring.

The short-term complications were developed in 2 horses and 2 calves.

Soft tissue infections and wire loosening or failure were the most common short-term complications.