Extraction of fractured cheek teeth under oral endoscopic guidance in standing horses.

The research paper describes an evaluation of a technique for extraction of fractured cheek teeth in horses, using endoscopy for guidance. This method was successful in about 87% of the cases and appears to be effective and safe for removal of fractured cheek teeth in standing horses.

Methodology

• The researchers used a case series to study the effectiveness of the technique.
• The study was conducted on 30 horses that had fractured cheek teeth.
• The medical records of these horses from April 2007 to August 2010 were reviewed.
• The sample included 31 fractured cheek teeth, 21 in the maxilla (upper jaw) and 10 in the mandible (lower jaw).

Observations

• Midline sagittal fractures of maxillary teeth were the most common type, noted in 13 cases (42%)
• This was followed by 10 cases (32%) of buccal or palatal fractures, and 5 cases (16%) of transverse or multiple fractures.
• The extraction technique under endoscopic guidance was successful in removing fractured teeth in 27 cases (87%).
• However, the technique was less successful in horses which were younger with the median age of the failure group being 7 years.
• The difference in age between the surgical success group and the failure group was statistically significant.

Conclusion

• The study concluded that endoscopic viewing is a valuable tool in facilitating instrument use and extraction of fractured cheek teeth in standing horses.
• This technique was found to be both effective and safe, as indicated by its high success rate of 87%.