Intraoral Formation of a Rigid Obturator for the Treatment of Dental Fistulae and Draining Tracts in the Horse

Abstract

A retrospective cohort study to describe a novel use of a mechanically retained, rigid obturator (RO) to manage maxillary and mandibular persistent pathologic oral communications (PPOCs). This study included 22 horses with PPOC with at least 6 months of follow-up after treatment with a RO. The RO was made with a flowable, bis-acryl-based composite resin. Medical records were analyzed, including case details, obtained imaging, surgical reports, and follow-up information. There were 10 horses that had follow-up examinations by the authors and 8 horses by the referring veterinarian; in 4 horses, follow-up information was obtained by informal telephone interviews with the owner. Complete resolution of clinical signs was obtained in 21 of 22 (95.5%) horses, with confirmed healing of the PPOC in 15 of 22 (68.2%) horses. Complications were noted in 7 of 22 (31.8%) cases. Complications included: complete loss of RO (2 horses), fracture/defect of the RO (2 horses), displaced/shifted RO (1 horse), and incomplete seal of the PPOC (2 horses). All complications were resolved by repairing or replacing the RO. The RO placement is a successful, noninvasive, easily repeatable treatment for PPOC.