Feline skull injuries: Treatment goals and recommended approaches

PRACTICAL RELEVANCE

Skull trauma in cats, which includes fractures of the mandible and maxilla, as well as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) conditions, is frequently encountered in general practice.

CLINICAL APPROACH

Head trauma requires immediate attention and the initial approach should be focused on stabilisation of the patient and evaluation of the major body systems, including respiratory and cardiovascular assessment, and neurological and ophthalmic examination. The head, oral occlusion and the patient's ability to open and close the mouth should be carefully evaluated. Once the cat is stable enough for anaesthesia, diagnostic imaging is essential to assess for skull injuries. Radiography may be helpful, although some conditions may be difficult to visualise due to soft tissue and bony structure superimposition. CT is a more sensitive technique for detecting skull injuries.

TREATMENT GOALS AND TECHNIQUES

A variety of stabilisation techniques have been described in the feline patient, and repair goals focus on restoration of the animal's oral function, while ensuring adequate dental occlusion, minimal invasiveness and morbidity, and pain relief. Surgical repair of mandibular and maxillary fractures may variously involve interdental wiring, interarcade wiring or suture, use of interfragmentary wires, plate and screw fixation, external skeletal fixation and use of dental acrylic. Decision-making with regard to treatment options depends on dental occlusion, type and location of the fracture, fracture stability and pain.

AIM

This review, directed at general practitioners working with cats, describes the relevant anatomy of the feline skull, the most common mandibular, maxillary and TMJ conditions, and their recommended management.