Mandibular corrective osteotomy using novel locking compression plate 3.5/4.5/5.0 mm metaphyseal plates.

This study outlines the technique and outcomes of using Metaphyseal Locking Compression Plates (size 3.5/4.5/5.0 mm) for surgically correcting mandibular brachygnathia, a condition of short lower jaw, in a Thoroughbred horse.

Methodology

• The subject of study was an eight-month-old Thoroughbred horse suffering from severe mandibular brachygnathia.
• As a part of the treatment, corrective osteotomy, a surgical procedure that involves cutting and reshaping of bones, was conducted.
• Post-osteotomy, the affected area was fastened with two Locking Compression Plates (LCP) of sizes 3.5/4.5/5.0 Metaphyseal. The plates were inserted through a minimal invasive procedure, making minute incisions in the body to reduce recovery time and chances of infection.

Results

• The surgical treatment of extreme mandibular brachygnathia was successful with only minor complications.
• The fixation with the Metaphyseal plates remained stable even after three months of postoperative check-up.
• Further, the cosmetic results were excellent as minimal invasive surgery generally leaves minimal scarring or deformity, and the horse owner reported high satisfaction with the procedure and results.

Conclusion

• The researchers found Metaphyseal Locking Compression Plates of sizes 3.5/4.5/5.0 mm to be highly effective for performing corrective osteotomy in cases of severe mandibular brachygnathia, particularly in young horses (weanlings).
• This technique offers another potential surgical approach for veterinaries attempting to correct severe cases of mandibular brachygnathia.