SEPTEMBER 2007: TUVOK

Tuvok is a 14-pound, 6-year old intact male Dachshund that was presented for severe dental disease with pustular discharge from each nostril. Preanesthetic blood work was done and an intravenous catheter was placed. Tuvok was placed under general anesthesia.During the oral examination, heavy calculus and imbedded hair deposits were found making the initial exam difficult to perform. A calculus forceps was used to remove the larger deposits. Upon removal of the calculus, the following teeth were given a mobility grade of three; 105-107, 109, 205-207, 209, 302-303,310 and 402-403, 410. The following teeth were missing 101-103, 201-202, 301, 401 and 406.

Probing revealed pocket depths of greater than 15 mm on all four canine teeth with oral nasal fistulas both maxillary canines. Radiographs confirmed bone loss. The following teeth were extracted by simple elevation; 104-107, 109, 203-207, 209, 302-303, 305, 310, 402-403, 407, and 410. Teeth 108 and 208 were extracted by sectioning and simple elevation of each root. The oral nasal fistulas were irrigated and repaired using 3.0 Vicryl sutures. Each socket was curetted and flushed with chlorhexidine prior to Consil bone grafting material being applied and 4.0 Vicryl was used to close the wounds. Doxirobe was placed in the periodontal pocket of 304, 404, 308, and 309 following root planing and curettage. Due to the length of surgery and condition of the oral cavity, it was decided to reschedule another evaluation with possible extractions of the remaining teeth in 2 months.

Tuvok was sent home on antibiotics and multimodal pain management of Metacam and Tramadol. Recheck appointments were scheduled weekly. The owner reported 4 days after surgery that Tuvok was eating and drinking normally and seemed much happier.