Surgical Approach to Mandibular Symphysis Fracture in Black-Eared Opossum (Didelphis aurita): Case Report

Abstract

An adult female black-eared opossum (Didelphis aurita) was found in the city of Guarulhos, Brazil, and was sent to veterinary care for clinical examination and future rehabilitation. In the physical exam, it was possible to verify mobility between the hemimandibles. The animal was submitted to the anesthetic procedure for a complete oral exam, intraoral radiography, and possible surgical intervention. The opossum was diagnosed with mandibular symphysis disjunction, needing surgery. The technique chosen was the labial locking system with buttons and cerclages. After the procedure, the animal was sent to the environmental organs for rehabilitation. After 40 days, the locking system was removed showing a complete healing of the mandibular symphysis. The animal was reintroduced to nature within 45 days of the procedure.

Keywords

• marsupials
• dentistry
• mandibular fractures
• cerclages
• wildlife dentistry