Internal Fixation of Severe Maxillofacial Fractures in Dogs

Abstract

Objective: To describe internal fixation for maxillofacial fractures using titanium miniplates and report outcome in 7 dogs. Study design: Prospective case series. Animals: Skeletally mature dogs (n ¼ 7) with maxillofacial fractures. Methods: After CT evaluation of fracture configuration, using a combination of extraoral and intraoral approaches as needed, non-locking titanium miniplates were contoured to match the normal anatomy of the fractured bones. Plates were secured using non-locking titanium screws and then covered with a soft-tissue envelope followed by routine intraoral and extraoral closure. Results: Fractures healed rapidly after reconstruction with immediate return to normal function and occlusion. Follow-up time of up to 94 months indicated excellent longterm function and general lack of complications. One dog developed nasal aspergillosis 1.5 years after surgery and the miniplates were removed without adverse consequences. Conclusion: Internal fixation for maxillofacial reconstruction using titanium miniplates is an excellent solution for the treatment of comminuted and displaced maxillofacial fractures in dogs.The maxillofacial complex in the dog is the most prominent part of the skull rendering it vulnerable to severe injuries.

Biomechanical evaluation of two plating configurations for fixation of a simple transverse caudal mandibular fracture model in cats

“…13,[15][16][17][18] The ideal location for application of the plate to the mandible ( Figure 1) was determined by subjective visual assessment of each mandible and its associated radiograph.…”

Surgical repair of a severely comminuted maxillary fracture in a dog with a titanium locking plate system

“…The identical forces that are exerted on the much more familiar mandible also are acting on the maxilla; however, the distribution of these forces is different, as the maxilla is subject to much less strain due to its orientation more so as an "outer facial frame", and as such basically acts as a link between the base of the skull and the occlusal surfaces (2,3,11,12). This support is provided by a series of anatomical buttresses that distribute the masticatory forces to the head, which exist in the horizontal, vertical and coronal planes.…”

“…Maxillofacial trauma in small animals is an uncommon occurrence, and although mandibular fracture repair with multiple techniques has been reported, maxillary fracture fixation has received relatively little attention (1)(2)(3). Additionally, there has historically been little emphasis on the biomechanical stresses present in the canine maxillofacial region, much less the optimal fixation methods to be utilized in order to obtain sufficient stability for healing.…”

“…We report the treatment of a severely comminuted maxillary fracture in a dog utilizing a titanium locking plate system a , which was applied using the principles described with the defined buttresses of the canine skull, so as to provide the necessary stability for uncomplicated healing (2,3,(10)(11)(12).…”

The application of 3‐dimensional printing for preoperative planning in oral and maxillofacial surgery in dogs and cats

“…Advanced diagnostic imaging is an essential component of preperative planning in OMFS. Specifically, the value of computed tomography (CT) has been well established as a source of diagnostic and prognostic information in candidates for OMFS . CT is especially useful to determine the extent of injuries in maxillofacial trauma, to compare the dimensions of osseous relative to soft tissue defects in congenital and acquired palatal lesions, and to assess margins and bone involvement of oral tumors.…”