Mandibulectomy and maxillectomy surgeries are procedures that involve the removal of part or all of the mandible (lower jaw) or maxilla (upper jaw), respectively. These surgeries are typically performed in cases of oral tumors or severe oral trauma that cannot be treated with other methods.
Why Are Mandibulectomy and Maxillectomy Surgeries Performed?
Mandibulectomy and maxillectomy surgeries are performed to remove tumors or other abnormalities of the jaw that cannot be treated with other methods, such as radiation therapy (RT) or chemotherapy. These surgeries are often recommended for pets with oral tumors that are malignant or aggressive and have a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body. Many times, these procedures are performed in combination with RT and/or chemotherapy.
What Happens During Mandibulectomy and Maxillectomy Surgeries?
Mandibulectomy and maxillectomy surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision in the skin over the affected area and remove the affected portion of the jaw, along with any affected teeth and surrounding tissues.
After the removal of the affected tissue, the remaining jawbone may be stabilized with plates, wires, or other hardware to promote healing and prevent deformity but often times stabilization is not required. The surrounding soft tissues will be sutured closed, and a drain may be placed to remove any excess fluids from the surgical site if necessary.
After the surgery, your pet will need to be monitored closely to ensure that they are healing properly. Pain management medication and antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection and promote healing. They will also need to be fed soft food and withheld chew toys for several weeks after surgery.
What Are the Risks and Complications of Mandibulectomy and Maxillectomy Surgeries?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with mandibulectomy and maxillectomy surgeries. These may include:
Infection at the surgical site
Bleeding or hemorrhage
Difficulty eating or drinking – It is more common for cats to struggle here than dogs so often we will place a temporary feeding tube in our feline patients
Swelling or inflammation
Implant failure or loosening
Deformity of the jaw or face
Your veterinarian will discuss these risks with you and help you determine if mandibulectomy or maxillectomy surgery is the best option for your pet.
What Is the Prognosis for Pets Who Undergo Mandibulectomy and Maxillectomy Surgeries?
The prognosis for pets who undergo mandibulectomy or maxillectomy surgery depends on several factors, including the type and severity of the tumor or injury, the extent of the surgery, and the overall health of the pet. In general, pets who undergo these surgeries can live comfortable and happy lives with proper post-operative care and rehabilitation.
Following surgery, your pet may need to be fed a soft or liquid diet and may require additional support or rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and mobility in the affected area. Your veterinarian will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions to help ensure a successful outcome.
In conclusion, mandibulectomy and maxillectomy surgeries are complex procedures that are typically reserved for cases of severe oral tumors or trauma that cannot be treated with other methods. While these surgeries do carry some risks, many pets can experience significant improvement in their quality of life after undergoing these procedures. If you think your pet may benefit from mandibulectomy or maxillectomy surgery, talk to your veterinarian about whether this procedure is a good option for your pet.
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