Repair of symphyseal fracture of mandible and maxillain a dog

A five-year-old nondescript dog was presented following accidental injury showing symptoms of salivation and bleeding from the mouth. On clinical examination of oral cavity, a midline palatal traumatic cleft with bleeding in upper jaw and also instability in lower jaw were observed. Radiography revealed multiple maxillo-facial fractures. The traumatic mandibular symphyseal separation, midline palatine maxillary symphyseal fracture and orbital fracture were noticed. Under xylazine sedation and general anaesthesia with ketamine and diazepam mixture, the approximation of palatine processes of maxillary bones was done after primary undermining and debridement of soft tissue with application of continuous (PGA, No.1) sutures. A cerclage wire was also placed in the upper maxilla proximally between the incisors and canine teeth for better stability. The symphyseal separation of mandible was repaired by using ventral approach with orthopaedic cerclage wire loop distal to the canine teeth. A temporary tape muzzle was applied during postoperative period. Intravenous fluids and antibiotics were given for a week. The animal recovered gradually and moved the jaws freely after three weeks.