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

The research reviewed 89 cases of horses with fractures in the mandible and maxilla, the areas at the front of a horse’s mouth, to compare the location of these fractures, methods of repair, complications, and outcomes. The study found that, while complications are common, the long-term prognosis is favorable, regardless of the type of fracture or repair method used.

Research Methodology

• The researchers conducted a retrospective study, using medical records and radiographs to gather data on the horses’ fractures.
• The horses in the study all had fractures in the rostral portions of their mandibles or maxillas.
• These fractures were sorted into categories based on their location and whether they were stable or unstable.
• Information on any postoperative complications and the long-term outcome of the horses were gathered through clinical examinations and telephone interviews with the horse owners.

Results of the Study

• The study identified four types of fractures: fractures involving only the alveolar plate, fractures involving both the alveolar plate and the body of the bone, unilateral fractures of the mandible, and bilateral fractures.
• The most commonly observed fractures involved only the alveolar plate (33%) or the alveolar plate and the body of the bone (32%). These types of fractures were usually fixed using interdental wiring.
• Unstable unilateral fractures of the mandible (11%) needed to be repaired using wires, a U-shaped bar (U-bar), or a bone plate. Stable unilateral fractures could be managed without surgical intervention.
• Bilateral fractures (24%) were often repaired with orthopedic wires in foals. In adults, the repair methods included a U-bar, acrylic splint, wires, or a bone plate. For two horses, bilateral fractures were managed conservatively without surgery.
• Short-term complications were observed in 24 out of the 89 horses (27%). These complications most commonly took the form of soft tissue infections and wire loosening or failure.
• In long term, persistent draining tracts were recognized as a common complication, mostly associated with bone sequestration.
• No wire replacements were needed for any of the horses after their release from the hospital.
• The long-term functional and cosmetic outcomes were considered favorable for every type of fracture and each of the repair methods.

Conclusion of the Study

• The research concludes that despite complications being common in horses with fractures in the rostral portions of the mandible and maxilla, the long-term prognosis for functional and cosmetic outcome is favorable.
• It also suggests that more diverse methods of treatment, besides surgery, can be considered depending on the specifics of the fracture, such as its stability and its impact on the alveolar plate and bone body.