Treatment of a mandibular bone cyst by use of a corticocancellous bone graft in a horse.

This research study focuses on the treatment of a bone cyst in a horse, and the use of a combined cortical and cancellous bone graft to stimulate healthy bone growth.

Background of the Case

• The study revolves around a 1-year-old Appaloosa stallion who developed a mass on the right rostral hemimandible.
• This mass was solid and did not show any signs of causing the horse discomfort.

Diagnosis

• Upon conducting radiography and a biopsy, the mass was identified as a bone cyst.

Treatment and Post-Surgery Observations

• The horse underwent surgical correction which involved curettage (scraping and removal of the cyst material) of the cystic cavity.
• Following the removal of the cyst, a graft which was a combination of cortical and cancellous bone was used to fill the defect.
• The role of the graft was to promote bone regeneration and growth in the area left vacant by the cyst.
• After five months, it was observed that the cystic cavity started ossifying, a process signifying that the bone was beginning to repair and regenerate itself.
• This progressive remodeling of bone tissue, along with an increase in bone density, was still observed 22 months following the surgery, which shows sustained benefits of the treatment.

Conclusion

• The evidence suggests the successful treatment of a bone cyst in the horse by using the method of curettage and then filling the void with a combination of cortical and cancellous bone graft.
• This study provides valuable insight into a viable treatment option for similar cases in equine veterinary medicine.