Extensive rostral mandibulectomy for treatment of ameloblastoma in a horse.

The research article discusses the treatment and long-term outcome of an extensive rostral mandibulectomy to remove ameloblastoma in a horse.

Overview of the Study

This paper presents a clinical report about a 21-year-old mare suffering from ameloblastoma, a benign tumor, which was located on the front part of its lower jaw (mandible). The mare underwent an extensive surgical procedure called rostral mandibulectomy, where a large part of the lower jaw was removed to eliminate the tumor.

Methods

• The treatment strategy adopted was to completely remove the tumor through an en-bloc resection method, leaving most of the mandibular symphysis (the junction where the two halves of the lower jaw meet).

Post-Surgery Results and Problems

• Following the surgery, the mare suffered from a fracture in the remaining mandibular symphysis, leading to a significant instability of the hemi-mandibles (halves of the lower jaw).
• Further complications included partial wound dehiscence – a condition where the surgical wound reopens – occurring 5 days after the surgery.

Recovery and Long-term Outcome

• Despite these complications, the mare managed to eat well and the surgical wound healed within two weeks.
• 18 months post-surgery, the mare exhibited bony fusion of the hemi-mandibles, with only mild protrusion of the tongue.

Conclusions

From this clinical case report, researchers found that a horse can recover from an extensive rostral mandibulectomy without any need for internal or external stabilization, and still maintain cosmetic appearance and functional capabilities. Therefore, this extensive procedure can be considered a feasible treatment option for similar conditions in horses.