Chortara I. DVM, Companion Animal Clinic, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Lorida O. DVM, PhD Candidate, Companion Animal Clinic, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Kyrkou S. Undergraduate Student, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Mamatsiou V. Undergraduate Student, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Papadimitriou S. DVM, Dentist, PhD, Professor, Companion Animal Clinic, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Introduction
Acquired oronasal communication is often due to periodontitis of the maxillary 3rd incisors, canine teeth, and 2nd and 3rd premolars. The symptoms are usually non-specific, so diagnosis is often delayed. The aim of this study is to focus on the clinical symptoms and treatment approach of such cases.
Clinical cases
Twenty adult dogs were presented with a history of oral odor, mastication difficulty, sneezing or/and coughing, nasal or/and ocular discharge. Under general anesthesia, all teeth were examined using a periodontal probe and intraoral radiographs. In all dogs, a periodontal pocket depth of >8 mm was found in at least one tooth. Extractions, a mucosal flap, alveolar curettage, and suturing were performed. Postoperatively, soft food, antibiotics (clindamycin or metronidazole/spiramycin), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and chlorhexidine gel were prescribed.
Results
All dogs were re-examined twenty days post-surgery, with complete remission of previous symptoms. Returning to dry food was recommended, as the closure and healing of the lesion were excellent.
Conclusions
Oral-nasal communication due to periodontitis is a common clinical entity that causes discomfort and may be responsible for serious upper respiratory infections. Its treatment is purely surgical and should be undertaken immediately without delay.
References
- Sauve C, MacGee S, Crowder S, Schultz L (2019) Oronasal and Oroantral Fistulas Secondary to Periodontal Disease: A Retrospective Study Comparing the Prevalence Within Dachshunds and a Control Group. J Vet Dent 36, 236-244.
- Martin S, Kirby B (2019) Incorporation of a polydioxanone absorbable plate in the successful repair of an iatrogenic oronasal fistula in a dog. JAVMA, 254.
- Carrolla M, Morello E, Olimpo M, Giacobino D, Buracco1 P, Ferrarisa E (2022) Random mucosal rotating flaps for rostral to mid maxillary defect reconstruction: 26 dogs (2000-2019). J Small Anim Pract 1–12
