Introduction

A 5-month-old stray dog with a completely severed maxilla, with rostrum cut in the middle, exposing the choanae and separating the gums in the premolar area. The maxilla was held by facial muscles estimated 3 weeks prior to presentation.

Objective

To provide the patient a normal life by keeping the airway patent and returning the normal mastication process of the dog by realigning the bony maxilla.

Method

Excess tissue and bone growth around the affected area were removed. Two sterile, round applicator sticks inside IV tubing were measured and inserted to fit the length of the rostrum to ensure patent airway. Gums in the area of maxillary recess were stitched together on both sides, followed by the severed bony alveolar process using a 2.0 nylon suture material. The muscular area was done after, including the inner cheeks, then skin on the nose. A second operation was done to fix unhealed skin and the fistula in the hard palate. The hard palate was loosened and sutured to cover the hole, supporting it with inner cheek flap. Food puree was fed for 6 weeks.

Result

The dog was able to fully use the once-damaged rostrum and maxilla. Unfortunately, permanent small fistulae were left, but this did not bother the dog's breathing and appetite.

Conclusion

The maxilla healed well without the use of orthopedic materials to repair the fracture at this age. The closure of the palate could be better with synthetic product such as a silicone button to prevent tongue from reaching the recovering tissue.