Miniplate 1.5 fixation for the repair of mandibular osteotomies in cats.

PURPOSE To evaluate the application of the maxillofacial miniplate 1.5 in the repair of unilateral mandibular osteotomies in cats. METHODS Twelve adult cats were divided into two groups. In group 1 (n=6), the osteotomy was performed in the body of the mandible, behind the 1(st) molar. In group 2 (n=6), the osteotomy was performed between the 4(th) premolar and 1(st) molar. The osteotomy was fixed with a titanium miniplate 1.5. Oral alimentation was reinitiated 24 hours after surgery. Cats were euthanized at 12 weeks postoperative. RESULTS Radiographs taken 1 week after surgery showed a radiolucent line. The osteotomy line was not more visible on the radiographs taken at 12 weeks postoperative. Macroscopic examination confirmed alignment and bone union of operated hemimandibles. Histological examination showed formation of woven bone within the osteotomy line. The percentage of bone tissue at these areas was measured by the histometry. There was no statistically significant difference between the values of group 1(75.07 ± 5.99) and group 2 (74.76 ± 8.54) (Mann-Whitney's test p= 0.469). CONCLUSION We concluded that the use of miniplate 1.5 for the fixation of mandibular osteotomy in cats provided the main goals in the treatment of mandibular fractures: bone union, normal dental occlusion and immediate return to oral alimentation.