Cheek Tooth Extraction Via a Minimally Invasive Transbuccal Approach and Intradental Screw Placement in 54 Equids.

This research paper analyzes the results of a minimally invasive technique for extracting cheek teeth in horses. The findings indicate that this technique, known as the Minimally Invasive Transbuccal Screw Extraction (MITSE), had a high success rate with only low levels of short-term complications, and high owner satisfaction.

Research Methodology

• The study is a retrospective case series examining the results of 58 MITSE procedures performed on 54 equids, which are animals of the horse family including horses, ponies, and mules.
• Prior to the study, preoperative findings that necessitated tooth removal included dental issues such as apical infections, fractures, neoplasia (uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues), displacements, and a supernumerary (extra) tooth.
• A variety of intraoperative challenges were recorded, as well as both short-term and long-term post-operation complications.
• A follow-up was conducted through phone interviews, asking owners specifically about nasal discharge, any change in facial symmetry, and signs of surgical site infection.

Findings of the Research

• Of the 58 procedures, 55 (95%) had previously attempted oral extraction but failed, often due to cheek tooth fractures or insufficient clinical crown for extraction with forceps.
• MITSE was successful in completely removing the targeted dental structure in 47 of the 58 (81%) procedures.
• However, there were cases where MITSE was not successful. In 11 out of the 58 procedures (19%), MITSE failed to fully extract the targeted dental structure and was followed by a repulsion procedure in 10 out of these 11 cases (91%).
• The researchers noted short-term postoperative complications including bleeding in 4 procedures (7%) and transient facial nerve paralysis in another 4 procedures (7%).
• Finally, owners expressed their satisfaction with both the functional and cosmetic outcomes for 40 out of 41 animals that had follow-up consultations.

Conclusion of the Research

• In conclusion, the researchers found that MITSE can be a viable alternative for cheek tooth extraction in equids when conventional oral extraction is not possible or has previously failed.
• A comparatively lower morbidity was reported with this technique, making it favorably comparable against more invasive procedures such as buccotomy or repulsion techniques.