Healing of mandibular body fractures with wire-reinforced interdental bis-acryl composite splints.

Abstract

ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to report the outcome of fractures of the body of the mandible stabilized with wire-reinforced interdental bis-acryl composite splints (WRICS) in cats.MethodsThe medical records of two referral institutions were reviewed. Only cats with mandibular body fractures at or distal to the mandibular canine tooth and treated with WRICS were included. Type of fracture, type and extension of the splint, healing time, dental injuries and treatment complications were retrieved from the medical records.ResultsA total of 13 mandibular fractures were encountered in 12 cats in a 21-year period. The most frequent location of fractures was between the canine tooth and the third premolar tooth. Multiple WRICS configurations were used. The mean ± SD healing time was 49.8 ± 18.9 days. No healing complications were observed in cases with or without dental treatment. Periodontal disease and inflammatory tooth resorption were considered complications secondary to the WRICS.Conclusions and relevanceWRICS are a suitable technique to repair mandibular fractures in tooth-bearing areas in cats with minimal complications. Additional dental and periodontal care is warranted secondary to the initial trauma or sequela of the WRICS.