Technical note on an ovine model to study biomedical implants intended for maxillofacial reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Biomaterials Science
• Animal Models

Background:

• Maxillofacial implants require rigorous preclinical evaluation.
• Standardized animal models are crucial for assessing implant performance.
• Sheep offer a suitable anatomical and physiological platform for such studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel repeated-measures surgical model for evaluating up to four maxillofacial implants in sheep.
• To establish a safe and practical method for implant assessment in a preclinical setting.
• To improve standardization and reduce animal usage in maxillofacial implant research.

Main Methods:

• A retromandibular subparotid surgical approach was developed using anatomical resources and cadaveric studies.
• A custom surgical guide and miniplates were utilized for implant standardization.
• Five Merino wethers were monitored for six months post-surgery.

Main Results:

• All sheep resumed feeding shortly after surgery, indicating minimal immediate impact.
• A mild, transient surgical site swelling was observed in two animals, resolving within eight weeks.
• The surgical approach proved safe and practical for implant placement and evaluation.

Conclusions:

• The described retromandibular subparotid approach offers a safe and reliable surgical corridor for mandibular ramus access in sheep.
• Ultrasonography is recommended to rule out implant involvement in cases of surgical site swelling.
• This validated model has the potential to enhance the standardization of maxillofacial implant studies and reduce the number of animals required.