Long term outcome after surgical correction of mandibular brachygnathia with unilateral type 1 external skeletal fixation.

This study assesses the long-term outcomes and complications after using a surgical procedure to correct severe overbite in horses. The procedure involves a corrective osteotomy, a surgical cutting and realigning of bone, and application of an external device known as a Type I fixator. The authors report overall high owner satisfaction in the long term, despite some complications occurring.

Methodology

• The study focused on seven horses, all identified as having severe mandibular brachygnathia, which is a condition manifested as severe overbite.
• Each horse underwent a surgical procedure involving a corrective osteotomy and application of a Type I external fixator, a type of brace applied outside the body to stabilize the bone.
• The researchers gathered information on the surgical technique, subsequent complications, long-term outcomes, and owner satisfaction.

Results

• All surgical procedures were successful in correcting the severe mandibular brachygnathia in the horses.
• Short term, post-surgery complications occurred that included wound infection, sequestrum (dead piece of bone) formation, and instability due to loosening of pins used in the fixator device earlier than expected. These issues generally meant a relatively high morbidity rate post-surgery.
• Despite these short-term complications, the overall long-term owner satisfaction was noted to be very high. It was not specified what factors were evaluated to determine owner satisfaction.

Conclusion

• Execution of a corrective osteotomy and the attachment of a Type I external fixator is a viable surgical option for severe mandibular brachygnathia correction.
• The researchers concluded that while there might be some considerable short-term complications, the long-term results of the surgical procedure are beneficial as evidenced by the high owner satisfaction level.
• However, the study was conducted on a small sample size (only seven horses), so more expansive research could further confirm the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of this surgical technique.