Fractures of the rostral portion of the mandible and maxilla in horses: 89 cases (1979-1997)

Abstract

Objective To compare fracture locations, repair methods, complications, and outcomes of horses with fractures of the rostral portions of the mandible and maxilla. Design Retrospective study. Animals 89 horses with fractures of the rostral portions of the mandible and maxilla. Procedure Medical records and radiographs were reviewed. Fractures were categorized by fracture location and stability. Postoperative complications and long-term outcome were determined by clinical examination and telephone interviews with horse owners. Results 4 fracture types were recognized. Fractures involving just the alveolar plate (33%) and those involving the alveolar plate and the body of the bone (32%) were most common and were often repaired by interdental wiring. Unilateral fractures of the mandible (11 %) were managed without surgery if stable. Unstable fractures were repaired with wires, a U-shaped bar (U-bar), or a bone plate. Bilateral fractures (24%) were often repaired with orthopedic wires in foals or with a U-bar, acrylic splint, wires, or bone plate in adult horses. In 2 horses, bilateral fractures were managed conservatively. Short-term complications developed in 24 of 89 (27%) horses. Soft tissue infections and wire loosening or failure were the most common short-term and long-term complications. Wire replacement was not required in any horses after release from hospital. Persistent draining tracts were most often associated with bone sequestration. Long-term functional and cosmetic outcomes were favorable for all fracture types and repair methods. Clinical Implications Although complications in horses with fractures of the mandible and maxilla are common, long-term prognoses for functional and cosmetic outcome are favorable. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1648-1652)