Less-Invasive Technique for Non-stabilized Mandibular Fracture in Mouse Models

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Innovation
• Animal Models

Background:

• Mandibular fractures in mice are crucial for studying endochondral ossification.
• Existing methods often result in significant bone loss and soft tissue damage.
• The mandible's anatomical constraints present challenges for surgical standardization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and describe a novel, less-invasive surgical protocol for creating non-stabilized mandibular fractures in mice.
• To establish a standardized method that minimizes complications and ensures reproducibility.
• To facilitate accurate in vivo analysis of bone repair mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• A submandibular approach with a skin incision along the inferior mandibular border.
• Elevation of the masseter muscle in a subperiosteal plane.
• Creation of a vertical, complete ramus fracture using piezoelectric device and scissors under saline irrigation.

Main Results:

• The protocol successfully created non-stabilized mandibular fractures with minimal bone loss.
• The technique resulted in limited soft tissue damage due to the less-invasive approach.
• The procedure demonstrated efficiency and consistency for reliable experimental outcomes.

Conclusions:

• This novel protocol offers an efficient and standardized method for inducing non-stabilized mandibular fractures in mice.
• The technique minimizes surgical trauma, crucial for accurate study of endochondral bone repair.
• This approach provides a reliable model for investigating mandibular bone healing processes.