Bilateral coronoidectomy associated with the use of acrylic resin for fixation of fractures in the mandible of a dog - Case Report

Mandibular fractures are relatively common in dogs, and damage to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause jaw immobility. A mixed breed dog with a history of escape and trauma of unknown origin and time of occurrence was treated at Animal Care Barueri Veterinary Clinic, in Barueri, São Paulo, due to which he returned home with lesions distributed throughout the body, mainly located in the face. The animal was sent for radiographs that showed a fracture in the mandibular symphysis, left mandibular ramus and bilateral mandibular coronoid processes. We then opted for bilateral coronoidectomy followed by fixation of the symphysis and mandibular ramus fractures. A curvilinear incision was made over each temporomandibular joint followed by exposure of the fragment of the coronoid processes which were then excised. The correction of symphysis and mandibular ramus fractures was performed by applying acrylic resin throughout the lower dental arch. Finally, an esophageal tube was passed for food and medication and external coaptation of the mouth and muzzle was made with Vetrap elastic bandage. The postoperative period was performed with enrofloxacin, tramadol hydrochloride, meloxicam dipyrone and tube fededing. After 60 days of post-surgical evaluation, no complications were observed and good outcome was reached with treatment.