Assessment of Fracture Distribution and Involvement of Functional Systems Following Craniomaxillofacial Trauma in 48 Cats.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess fracture distribution and involvement of functional systems in cats presenting with craniomaxillofacial (CMF) trauma using computed tomography imaging. Involvement of functional systems, including the oral cavity, nasal airways and nasopharynx, orbita and eye and neurocranium, including the tympanic bulla, was assessed.The study consisted of 48 cats with complete computed tomography imaging of the skull using a '1.0-mm' slice thickness. Fractures were classified according to their anatomical location, and the involvement of functional systems was assessed.Fractures of the mandible were most common and present in 40/48 cats. Fractures of the temporomandibular joint were found in 25/48 cats. Fractures involving the maxillofacial structures were present in 36/48 cats. Fractures of the orbita, nasopharynx, zygomatic arch and neurocranium were diagnosed in 30/48, 29/48, 12/48 and 6/48 cats, respectively. Combined involvement of two or more functional systems was present in 36/48 cats. Functional system involvement of the oral cavity combined with nasal airways was found in 36/46 cats. Involvement of the nasal airways combined with the orbita and eye was found in 30/36 cats.Craniomaxillofacial trauma in cats causes multifocal, concomitant involvement of functional systems. A multimodal therapeutic approach to all potential functional deficits seems to be essential in managing craniomaxillofacial trauma in the cat.