| Abstract: | Twenty-six cases of mandibular fractures and luxations are reviewed. Mandibular trauma was due to car accidents (46%) and falls from great heights (23%). Cardiovascular shocks (40%), thoracic injuries (23%), epistaxis (30%), cleft palates (19%), subconjunctival hemorrhages (15%), broken canines (15%), concussions (15%), maxillary fractures (12%) were the most frequently encountered associated problems. Of the 26 cats, 22 had symphyseal fractures, 6 mandibular body fractures, 4 ramus fractures (3 of which were articular) and 6 had temporo-mandibular luxations. Open reduction and internal fixation was performed in 21 cases, surgery being indicated for unstable symphyseal and body fractures, the rostral body fractures being the most challenging to repair. Conservative therapy and ancillary treatment methods such as external coaptation and pharyngostomy were used for the fractures of the ramus. Six temporo-mandibular luxations associated with mandibular fractures in 5 cases were reduced under anesthesia. Good dental occlusion and mandibular function was obtained in the 24 treated cases. |
