Therapeutic Approach to Mandibular and Maxillary Fractures in Captive Cetaceans (Historical Cases Review)
IAAAM Archive
Claudia Gili1; Jim McBain2; Manuel Garcia
Hartmann3; Greg Bossart4; Maya Magdalena Menchaca5; Michael
Renner6; Forrest Townsend7; Michael Walsh8; Géraldine
Lacave9; Ana Salbany10; Luis Roque10
1 Acquario di Genova, Ponte Spinola 16128, Genova Italy;
2Sea World of California, San Diego, CA, USA; 3Duisburg Zoo, Duisburg,
Germany; 4Division of Marine Mammal Research and Conservation, Harbor Branch
Oceanographic Institution, Ft. Pierce, FL, USA; 5Miami Seaquarium, Miami, FL, USA;
6Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Powell, OH, USA; 7Bayside Hospital for
Animals, Fort Walton Beach, FL, USA; 8Sea World of Florida, Orlando, FL, USA;
9Marine Mammal Veterinary Services, Brugge, Belgium; 10Zoomarine, Guia,
Albufeira, Portugal
Abstract
Several cases of maxillary and mandibular fractures occurred over the
years in small cetaceans maintained under human care. These types of fractures have been
reported in wild dolphins and were observed both at strandings as well as in wild healthy
animals. In captivity these cases often occur during interaction between individuals.
The practical experience of several veterinarians shows a broad range of
therapeutic methodologies. The methods range from surgical approaches utilizing pins to maintain
apposition and alignment to the less invasive use of splints and the application of various
types casts or bandages.
This paper will review 17 clinical cases of jaw fractures (15 Tursiops
truncatus, 1 Stenella attenuata and 1 Lagenorhyncus obliquidens) exploring the
methods of surgical fixation, bandaging techniques, husbandry management of the animal for
feeding control, prognosis and results.
References
1. Townsend Jr. FI, Sips DG. 1996. Medical management of a
maxillary fracture in a Stenella attenuata Proc. 27th International Aquatic Animal
Medicine Conference Pp. 42.