Shih Tzu mix Scruffy escaped his yard and was found a short time later with his jaw at an odd angle. His family rushed him to VREC for evaluation.
Radiographs revealed a left caudal mandibular body fracture (the bottom of the lower jaw) with comminution (a break or splinter of the bone into more than two fragments.) Considerable force is required to fragment bone, meaning a fracture of this kind occurred via high-impact trauma. In addition, Scruffy also had left symphyseal separation, meaning bones usually resting together in his jaw were no longer in their proper position.
After qualifying for the Angel Fund, Scruffy was internally transferred to the Surgery department. He had a special wire placed to correct the separation and keep the jaw aligned. In addition, the surgery team performed an internal fixation (a stabilizing procedure) of the fracture.
Scruffy was an excellent patient and will return soon for updates on his progress. Once radiographs reveal he is healing properly, the wire will be removed from his jaw!