Mandibular Fracture in Single-humped Camels

Abstract

Objective: To report the causes and classification of mandibular fractures in dromedary camels and outcome after treatment. Animals: Single-humped camels (n = 116) with mandibular fracture. Methods: At admission, cause, site, classification, and radiography of mandibular fractures were recorded. Factors affecting fracture healing were analyzed. Results: Biting was the main cause of mandibular fractures in camels, which occurred more commonly in older males (P = .001) than in females. Open fractures were more common than closed ones (92.2% versus 7.8%, P = .0001) and single fractures were more frequent (82%) than multiple and comminuted fractures (18%; P = .001). Fractures were treated by interdental wiring (91.2%) or U-shaped aluminum bar (8.8%) and healing occurred in most (83.2%) fractures. Conclusions: In dromedary camels, mandibular fracture is most commonly caused by bites and can be successfully repaired by interdental wiring or a U-bar technique with good outcome. ©2011 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.