Case Presentation
During the management of mandibular fractures, complications related to soft tissue coverage may occur over time. This case illustrates the clinical approach following fracture healing.
A 2-year-old domestic shorthair cat was presented after a suspected road traffic accident with injuries to the oral cavity. Marked swelling was noted in the sublingual region.
Diagnostic imaging revealed a mandibular symphyseal separation as well as a fracture of the left mandibular ramus.
Surgical Management
Surgical stabilization was performed the following day under general anesthesia.
The mandibular symphysis was stabilized using a 0.5 mm intermandibular cerclage wire. In addition, the fracture of the left mandibular ramus was stabilized with a 1.5 mm 4-hole titanium locking plate and four locking screws (7–9 mm in length).
Postoperative Course
In the immediate postoperative period, the patient showed reduced food intake.
Over time, food intake remained variable. Occlusion was reported as normal during follow-up examinations.
Follow-Up
During subsequent rechecks, partial exposure of the implant was noted in the caudal mandibular region, accompanied by a renewed decrease in food intake.
Radiographically, the fracture was already fully healed at this stage.
The decision was therefore made to remove the locking plate.
Outcome
Following implant removal, the patient showed normal occlusion and an unremarkable general condition.
The fracture had healed completely, and no further stabilization was required.
Clinical Relevance
This case demonstrates that complex mandibular fractures in cats can be effectively stabilized using a combination of cerclage and plate osteosynthesis.
At the same time, careful attention should be paid to the soft tissue situation during follow-up, as implant exposure may occur, particularly in the mandibular region.
SPECIAL THANKS to Dr. Felix D. Sonntag for sharing this Case with us.
Implant System used: LeiLOX 1.5 mm 4-hole titanium locking plate with four locking screws (7-9 mm)
Manufacturer: Rita Leibinger Medical
Surgery by: Dr. med. vet. Felix D. Sonntag, Site Director (Kleintiergesundheitszentrum Ravensburg, Evidensia)
About the Kleintiergesundheitszentrum Ravensburg Evidensia
Located in Ravensburg in the heart of Upper Swabia, the clinic provides comprehensive veterinary care for dogs, cats, and other companion animals.
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
About Przychodnia Weterynaryjna Jaroslaw Garbowski
The clinic offers a broad range of medical and surgical services, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality, evidence-based care. At the same time, the team places great importance on treating each patient with individual attention and compassion.
A key part of their approach is working closely with pet owners, taking the time to understand their concerns, expectations, and the specific needs of each animal.
About the
LeiLOX 1.5/2.0 Micro System
Featuring over 62 different plates, the LeiLOX 1.5 / 2.0 Locking Plate System offers unparalleled flexibility to address a wide spectrum of fracture cases. From Y-Plates to L-Plates, Bridge Plates, Standard Plates, Cuttable 20-hole Plates, and a myriad of Challenger Plates, the LeiLOX system provides a diverse range of options to suit every surgical need - from maxillofacial and pelvic fractures, to the fixation of long tubular bones.
Made of medical grade Titanium, the LeiLOX Micro implants are very durable but lightweight, highly biocompatible, and low in temperature sensitiveness. All these collectively contribute to long-term surgical success.
The LeiLOX 1.5/2.0 Micro System is the “swiss army knife” for micro fractures: it contains not only (cuttable) standard plates, but also unique shapes for complex anatomy. Available in four different compact sets: LeiLOX 1.5/2.0 Osteosynthesis Locking Set ,and 1.5/2.0 Challenger Set, 1.5 Osteosynthesis Locking Set, and the 2.0 Osteosynthesis Locking Set.
LEARN
Fracture Management
in one of our Workshops
2026
Frakturbehandlung bei Hunden, Katzen & Exoten – Fokus Kleinstpatienten - 29. August 2026 in AustriaCarpal & Tarsal Injuries: Diagnostik, Arthrodese & Double Plating im Wet Lab - 4. December 2026 - 5. December 2026 in Germany
2027
Frakturbehandlung bei Hunden, Katzen & Exoten: Fokus Kleinstpatienten - 11. June 2027 - 12. June 2027 in Germany
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