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Vets grow dog jawbones using 3D printing
dog with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis
Skull of a dog with temporomandibular joint ankylosis.

New procedure allows surgeons to regrow the full arch of the jaw

US veterinary surgeons are performing groundbreaking surgery, using 3D printing to grow new jaw bones for dogs.

Previously, vets have only been able to regrow a portion of the jaw. Now, surgeons can create the full arch of the jaw, giving the dog a more normal appearance and function.

This is thanks to a new procedure developed by Professors Frank Verstraete and Boaz Arzi at the University of California (UC) Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

UC Davis is the only veterinary school carrying out the procedure on a routine basis.

3D printing is used to create an exact replica of the dog's skull prior to surgery. The procedure involves removing the affected portion of jaw and screwing the formed titanium plate to the bone.

A sponge soaked in bone morphogenic protein is then placed where the jaw used to be. This stimulates the remaining jaw bone to grow new bone cells. In eight to 10 weeks, the new bone is fully formed.

3D printing reduces anaesthesia time and allows surgeons to plan ahead. Previously, they would have to wait until surgery had begun before building the titanium plate.

Currently, bone regrowth protein for humans is only approved for some dental work and spinal fusion. However, Prof Verstraete says "there's a good possibility this may spill over inyo human reconstructive surgery."

The regrown jaw is slightly shorter than previously, as bone and soft tissue has to be removed and the remaining blood cells can only support so much bone regrowth. As yet, the procedure does not allow for the regrowing of teeth.

Ten-year-old collie Hoshi underwent the procedure after vets discovered squamous cell carcinoma in her mouth and the lower part of her jaw had to be amputated.

Another collie, Lad from Kentucky, was shot in the in the muzzle and had to have most of his lower jaw removed. Surgeons used data from his tomography scan to print a replica of his skull and what remains of his lower jaw. Lad's jaw was then crafted and printed.

Lad's surgery is currently on hold due to a bone infection and is hoped he will soon undergo the procedure.

Image courtesy of UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.