Extraction of cheek teeth using a lateral buccotomy approach in 114 horses (1999–2009)

• Published in: Equine veterinary journal 2011-05, Vol.43 (3), p.348-353
• Main Authors: O'Neill, H.D, Boussauw, B, Bladon, B.M, Fraser, B.S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: anesthesia; Animals; buccotomy; cardiac arrest; Cheek - surgery; dehiscence; dentistry; diagnostic techniques; euthanasia; exodontia; facial nerve; Female; fistula; horse; Horse Diseases - surgery; Horses; hospitals; Male; myositis; nerve tissue; packaging materials; paralysis; parotid salivary gland duct; prognosis; Retrospective Studies; sinuses; sinusitis; surgery; Surgery, Oral - methods; Surgery, Veterinary - methods; teeth; tooth; Tooth Extraction - methods; Tooth Extraction - veterinary
• ISSN: 0425-1644; 2042-3306
• DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.2010.00169.x

Reason for performing the study: There are few published data regarding the success rates of cheek tooth (CT) removal by lateral buccotomy in the horse. Objectives: A retrospective study of 114 horses admitted to 2 private equine referral hospitals over a 10 year period (1999-2009), which underwent CT removal via a lateral buccotomy. Methods: Hospital records were analysed and details including case details, presenting complaint and results of all diagnostic tests and surgical reports were documented. Information obtained during post operative reassessment was also available for analysis. Long-term follow-up information (>2 months) was obtained for 112 horses. Results: Short-term complications (2 months with no complications. Conclusion: Horses with CT removal by a lateral buccotomy have a reasonable prognosis for long-term outcome. Potential relevance: Performing a lateral buccotomy is a justified treatment alternative for the surgical removal of equine CT following unsuccessful attempts by standing oral extraction, offering advantages over alternatives such as retropulsion, endodontic therapy and periapical curettage.