Surgical correction of mandibular fracture in a mare by interdental cerclage: a case report

Abstract

Secondary mandible fracture due to external trauma is not uncommon inhorses, that being the most commonly fractured bone when the injure ison the animal´s head. In most cases, the injuries are open and damaging tosurrounding soft tissues. As the bones of the head are not subjected to loadforces, the support requirements for fracture fixation are less challenging.This paper describes the surgical treatment in field of a mandibular fracturein e 64-month-old Colombian Creole mare. It shows malocclusion with a tearon the buccal mucosa. Oral radiographic projection shows an open transversefracture in the mandibular body at the level of the right alveolar plate region.Anesthesia is initiated with acepromazine (0.04 mg/kg intramuscular) and inductionwith xylazine (1.1 mg/kg) and ketamine (2.2 mg/kg intravenous). Totalintravenous anesthesia with triple drip was used for maintenance (2 g ofketamine + 500 mg of xylazine in 1 liter of 5% guaifenesin) in constant infusion(2-3 ml/kg/h). After cleaning and debriding the wound, an incisionis made through the cheek on the premolars 406 and 407. An orifice isdrilled between the interalveolar spaces of the premolars. The wire ispassed through the hole, which is routed rostrally and tied through the holespreviously made between the incisors 402 and 403. The wire is twistedto increase compression in the fracture line. After tightening, the ends ofthe cables are bent. Post-operative management was based on the administrationof ketoprofen for 5 days, Penicillin G (20,000 IU/kg) and dailydisinfection of the wound with Chlorhexidine 0.12%. The wire was left for4 weeks, observing rapid healing and consolidation of the fracture. Therestoration of the functions of apprehension and chewing were obtainedquickly. It can be said that this technique provides a safe stability, is easy toperform and inexpensive.