Internal Fixation of Severe Maxillofacial Fractures in Dogs

Objective: To describe internal fixation for maxillofacial fractures using titanium miniplates and report outcome in 7 dogs. Study design: Prospective case series. Animals: Skeletally mature dogs (n=7) with maxillofacial fractures. Methods: After CT evaluation of fracture configuration, using a combination of extraoral and intraoral approaches as needed, non-locking titanium miniplates were contoured to match the normal anatomy of the fractured bones. Plates were secured using non-locking titanium screws and then covered with a soft-tissue envelope followed by routine intraoral and extraoral closure. Results: Fractures healed rapidly after reconstruction with immediate return to normal function and occlusion. Follow-up time of up to 94 months indicated excellent long-term function and general lack of complications. One dog developed nasal aspergillosis 1.5 years after surgery and the miniplates were removed without adverse consequences. Conclusion: Internal fixation for maxillofacial reconstruction using titanium miniplates is an excellent solution for the treatment of comminuted and displaced maxillofacial fractures in dogs.