Paschalidis G. DVM, MSc Student, Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Lorida O. DVM, PhD Candidate, Companion Animal Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Karatzoglou G. DVM
Patsikas M. DVM, MD, PhD, DiplECVD, Professor, Imaging Diagnostics Unit, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Papadimitriou S. DVM, DDS, PhD, Professor, Companion Animals Clinic, School of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Introduction
The aim of this study was the presentation of a rare case of bilateral caudoventral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) luxation, in a brachycephalic cat.
Clinical case
A 7-year-old unneutered male Persian cat presented in shock after falling from the 4th floor. Following stabilization, the cat was referred to the Companion Animal Clinic A.U.Th for further investigation. Clinical examination and CT scanning revealed rupture of the hard palate and bilateral caudoventral TMJ luxation, without coexisting fractures of the retroarticular processes. Initially, due to anesthesia- related problems, palate suturing and esophagostomy tube placement were performed. Fifteen days later, bilateral condylectomy was performed and 15 days post-operatively the esophagostomy tube was removed.
Results
Three days post-operatively, the cat ate soft food and on day 25 dry food was offered. The range of mouth opening was satisfactory since the first post-operative day and 10 months later the oral cavity is fully functional.
Conclusions
Bilateral caudoventral TMJ luxation, without coexisting fractures of the retroarticular processes, is a rare condition in cats. According to the literature, the particular TMJ conformation of brachycephalic cats makes these TMJ luxations easier to occur and condylectomy is the best option for bilateral chronic TMJ luxations.
References
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