Gingival approach to correct wry nose using locking compression plates in two foals

Abstract

Wry nose (campylorrhinus lateralis) in foals leads to breathing and weaning problems as well as reduced performance. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe a new gingival approach for, and report the outcome after, surgical correction of wry nose in two foals. Two young foals with wry nose were surgically treated using a gingival approach. Osteotomy of the incisive and maxillary bones was carried out, and a 3.5-mm locking compression plate (LCP) with screws was inserted in the incisive and maxillary bones and in several teeth to stabilise the gap. The rostral part of the nasal septum was resected, and osteotomy and plate fixation were used to correct the nasal bone deviation. A 2.4-mm UniLOCK plate was used in one foal and 2.7-mm LCP in the other. Respiratory difficulties and facial malformation were markedly reduced in both foals. The existing brachygnathia superior and nasal bone deviation could not be completely eliminated. Main limitation was the small sample size of only two foals. In conclusion surgical correction of wry nose through a gingival approach resulted in a good outcome with a significant reduction in the deviation and associated clinical signs.