Bovine mandibular fractures.

A retrospective study of bovine mandibular fractures was conducted. An increased incidence in males, beef breeds and animals less than one year of age was identified when the study group of 17 was compared to the total bovine case load. Manipulation during dystocia was the most common cause of fractures. Four neonates had rostral mandibular fractures. Fractures caudal to or involving the premolars were restricted to animals over a year of age.Treatment was attempted in ten of the seventeen cases, with euthanasia or slaughter elected in the remaining seven cases. Of the five cases treated by internal fixation, all four neonates died from conditions related to septicemia.