Use of a pinless external fixator for unilateral mandibular fracture repair in nine equids.
OBJECTIVE
To report use of a pinless external fixator (PEF) for unilateral mandibular fractures in 9 equids.


METHODS
Case series.


METHODS
Equids (n=9) with unilateral mandibular fractures.


METHODS
All fractures were stabilized with the AO/ASIF PEF using a minimum of 4 clamps, under general anesthesia. Fracture configuration, complications, outcome, and owner satisfaction were evaluated.


RESULTS
All fractures were stabilized; 2 equids were euthanatized; 1 because of an inability to stand after surgery and 1 because of owner decision after PEF dislodgement. Seven repairs healed with good outcome and owner satisfaction. Complications included dislodgement of the PEF (3), bone sequestration (3), and weight loss (1). Drainage associated with repair resolved after removal of sequestra and clamps.


CONCLUSIONS
Stabilization of unilateral mandibular fractures with the PEF in horses was minimally invasive with minimal risk of tooth root interference; however, after care is time consuming.


CONCLUSIONS
PEF is an alternative technique for stabilizing unilateral mandibular fractures in equids.
Haralambus
Rhea Maria Anna
RM
Surgery Department of the Equine Clinic, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland. rhea.haralambus@vetmeduni.ac.at
Werren
Cecile
C
Brehm
Walter
W
Tessier
Caroline
C
D000818:Animals; D001858:Bone Nails / Q000662:veterinary; D018397:Equidae / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D016267:External Fixators / Q000662:veterinary*; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D006736:Horses / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery; D008337:Mandibular Fractures / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014945:Wound Healing