Advanced Oral Surgery
Oral Biopsies
Biopsy with follow-up histopathology (review by a pathologist) is the only way to know what type of mass is growing in a pet’s mouth. A biopsy can be performed as an excisional (the mass is removed for treatment and diagnosis) or incisional (a piece of a large mass is taken for diagnosis only). Excisional biopsies are recommended for smaller masses where minimal bone involvement is noted on a Cone Beam CT. If a mass is larger or extensive bone involvement is noted, an incisional biopsy will be recommended to allow for a diagnosis and better treatment planning.
Jaw Fracture Fixation
Jaw fracture fixation is the process of stabilizing a jaw fracture. Creating stability in any bone fracture is ideal because it will allow the body the opportunity to heal bone to bone and decrease the amount of pain the pet feels. If the area of the fracture is not stabilized, the body will attempt healing but will at best only be able to create a non-union (fibrous) instead of a solid bony connection. There are many ways to stabilize a jaw fracture and choosing which one is most likely to succeed requires knowledge of anatomy and physiology as well as experience with troubleshooting complications. There are times when teeth need to be extracted or receive endodontic therapy due to a jaw fracture. A Board Certified Veterinary Dentist® is ideal for assessing treatment options due to the knowledge and experience they have regarding the anatomy and function of the teeth and jaws. Our Cone Beam CT also allows us to visualize the jaw fracture in three dimensions to improve treatment planning.
Mandibulectomies/Maxillectomies
Once a histopathologic diagnosis is received for an oral mass, the treatment plan may include removal of part of the upper or lower jaw. Along with oral masses, traumatic situations can also create a need for these procedures. A removal of part of the lower jaw is called a mandibulectomy while removal of part of the upper jaw is called a maxillectomy. With experience and surgical skills, these procedures can often be performed with a final result that is very cosmetically appealing and functional for the pet. If this procedure is recommended for your pet, you will be counseled on what to expect. We will not recommend this procedure if we do not feel it is likely to be significantly beneficial to your pet’s health and comfort.
Contact
1012 Rondale Court. O’Fallon, MO 63368