JVD 2015 #4 - Management of Temporomandibular Joint Luxation in a Cat Using a Custom-Made Tape Muzzle

Question 1

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, what is the most common TMJ luxation presentation in a cat?

Answer 1

rostrodorsal displacement of one mandibular condyle with mandibles shifted to the side opposite of the luxation; clinical sign: inability to close mouth

Question 2

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, how does a caudoventral TMJ luxation present?

Answer 2

with the mandibles shift caudally and toward the lunated side

Question 3

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, once an uncomplicated TMJ luxation is reduced (closed under GA), what must be done to prevent reluxation while soft tissues are healing?

Answer 3

Some form of fixation: MMF, labial reverse suture through buttons, bignathic encircling and retaining device (BEARD), tape muzzle

Question 4

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, what are 2 methods of closed reduction techniques?

Answer 4

wooden dowel or pencil caudal mouth and close swiftly; pull mandible on luxated side rostral to disengage from articular eminence, and ventral to direct it toward the mandibular fossa, then pressure redirected caudally and ventrally to engage the masseter and temporal muscles during reduction of the condyle back

Question 5

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta,

what are some common complications of tape muzzles?

how long should they be left in place?

Answer 5

moist dermatitis, alopecia, aspiration, incomplete fracture stabilization resulting in non or malunion fx w subsequent malocclusion, delayed return to fx, patient noncompliance;

1-4 weeks

Question 6

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, what are complications of more rigid fixation?

Answer 6

soft tissue swelling, discharge, appliance loosening, aspiration, difficulty eating/breathing, detrimental thermoregulation (should still be able to pant and vomit)

Question 7

According to “management of TMJ luxation in a cat using a custom-made tape muzzle” by Somrak, Maretta, what are some contraindications for a tape muzzle?

Answer 7

fx canines preventing canine interdigitation, brachycephalics, pre-existing or post-traumatic respiratory distress, vomiting or regurge, bilateral mandibular fx, complicated/displaced/comminuted fractures