fractured mandible

RE: fractured mandible

David Mills — Thu, 05 Oct 2017 14:18:00 GMT

Update on this case.

After treating for ex-fix related infection for 2w, the dog is eating fine and the area is more stable. No pain on manipulation and infection resolved. Owners are using a Halti-type device that goes around the caudal mandible. Never seen one before.

Given clinically well, taking a conservative route at the moment. Original fracture wasn't open, happened when dog cracked mandible on a table.

Thanks for the opinions.

RE: fractured mandible

Evelyn Barbour-Hill — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 13:25:50 GMT

I think only the clinician on the spot can say whether this has to be fixed or whether, as others suggest, it can be left untreated. What caused the fracture in the first place may also be relevant.

But looking at the radiographs I'd say, in this young dog, that it wants fixation.

In which case:

Don't wait two weeks.

Get rid of the tooth root that's right in the fracture. That means extracting the tooth, unless you fancy root amputation and endodontic treatment of the other root (I guess not ). Then apply a miniature plate. Precautions like curettage of the site, antibacterial treatment and so on, go without saying.

PS. That's way too far caudal for muzzle treatment ever to help.

RE: fractured mandible

Anthony Todd — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 10:53:55 GMT

[quote user="Beats"]

If it's eating fine I'd be inclined to leave alone and follow-up as your are doing, but interested to hear of best interventional options.

[/quote]

Plus one, used to see a lot in old yorkies with the mandible sort of held together by molar roots.

Surprisingly pain and symptom free, IMHE

RE: fractured mandible

Beats — Fri, 15 Sep 2017 10:40:18 GMT

If it's eating fine I'd be inclined to leave alone and follow-up as your are doing, but interested to hear of best interventional options.