Use of a cross-pin technique to repair bilateral mandibular fractures in a 32 day-old foal

Authors: Knudsen AR, Williamson A, Butt T
Publication: Australian Equine Veterinarian, Volume 44, Issue 1, pp 34-41, Mar 2024
Publisher: Equine Veterinarians Australia

Animal type: Horse
Article class: Clinical Article

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Abstract:

Introduction: Numerous techniques have been described to repair inherently unstable bilateral rostral fractures of the mandible. However, these can require significant expertise and specialisedequipment and have numerous risk factors forsurgical site complications.

Case Summary: A novel technique to repair bilateral mandibular fractures in the foal is described. A 32-day old foal presented for assessment and treatment of bilateral fractures of the rostral body of the mandible. The fractures were stabilised with two crossed Steinmann pins, placed through the rostral mandible at the level of the lateralmost incisor and across the intermandibular space into the opposing hemimandible, aiming for the level of the second cheek tooth. The foal was comfortable enough to nurse immediately after recovery from anaesthesia and was discharged the next day. When presented for pin removal eight weeks post-surgery, there was bony callous formation at both fracture sites, considered adequate for pin removal. One pin had been prematurely lost. At follow-up seven months later, no long-term complications were reported.

Relevance: The cross-pin technique achieved sufficient stabilisation of the bilateral mandibular fractures to allow healing. Surgical insertion of cross pins is technically easier compared to internal fixation, external skeletal fixation, U-bar fixation and intra-oral splinting. Advantages include reduced surgical time, simple surgical equipment, low implant cost and potentially lower risk of surgical site complications and infection. Further studies with larger numbers of cases and longer-term follow-up are required.

KEYWORDS: horse, foal, mandibular fracture, pin, repair

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