Partial mandibulectomy for treatment of mandibular fractures in dogs: eight cases (1981-1984).

Partial mandibulectomy was performed in 8 dogs with open or infected mandibular fractures (3 second degree and 5 third degree) because of economic restriction, osteomyelitis, or severe bone and soft tissue injury. Six dogs ate voluntarily by the second day after surgery, and 2 dogs required pharyngostomy tube feeding for 2 to 6 days. Complications included oral wound dehiscence (3 dogs), shifting of the mandible toward the operated side (6 dogs), and drooping of the tongue (2 dogs). Slight malocclusion was of no consequence, and all dogs were eating normally at follow-up evaluations (10 days to 24 months; median, 13 months). Mandibular function was maintained in all dogs.