Treatment of multiple mandibular fractures in cats with mandibular external fixation

In this study, the clinical and radiological outcomes of treating multiple mandibular fractures in cats using a mandibular external fixator system were evaluated. For this purpose, eight cats of varying breeds, ages, and sexes diagnosed with mandibular fractures and presented to the Siirt University Animal Health Application and Research Hospital were included. As the osteosynthesis material, the "mandibular external fixator system" designed by Aysam Medikal was utilized. Clinical and radiographic examinations revealed non-infected open fractures in all cases. In six cases with non-displaced mandibular fractures, closed reduction combined with external fixation was performed, whereas in the remaining two cases, limited open reduction was required due to significant displacement, followed by the application of the external fixator. The animals were hospitalized for postoperative care. Radiographic evaluations on postoperative day 7 indicated the initiation of fracture healing in all cases. Follow-up examinations revealed that complete fracture healing occurred within 6 to 7 weeks in all patients, after which the fixators were removed. During this period, minor pin tract infections were observed in two cases, and localized edema was noted in three; however, these complications did not negatively affect the overall healing process when appropriately managed. In conclusion, it was determined that clinical and functional recovery can be achieved in a short period by applying the mandibular external fixator system, which is indicated for mandibular fractures of various forms and localizations encountered in cats.