JFMS Clinical Spotlight: Dr. Alix Freeman on Mandibular Fracture Management

Dr. Alix Freeman
All Cats Considered – Episode 107

Welcome to our second episode in our JFMS Clinical Spotlight series, where each month we interview authors of recent JFMS articles chosen by our editors as the Clinical Spotlight article of the month.

For this month’s episode, Nathalie Dowgray, Head of ISFM, is joined for a discussion by Alix Freeman, MRCVS on her recent article, Mandibular Fracture Repair Techniques in Cats: A Dentist’s Perspective. Feline head trauma injuries are common in general practice, often resulting in mandibular fracture. Dr. Freeman walks through how she got interested in mandibular fractures, and how her team approaches problem-solving to determine the best repair technique that will improve the welfare of the cat. She also discusses some tips for general practitioners to use when they begin a diagnostic assessment of head traumas, tips for using radiographs to make a diagnosis, intubation techniques, the importance of having a comprehensive understanding of feline anatomy, and much more!

Learn more about the references discussed in this episode:

JFMS Clinical Spotlight article: Mandibular Fracture Repair Techniques in Cats: A Dentist’s Perspective
2022 ISFM Consensus Guidelines on Management of the Inappetent Hospitalised Cat

Recent Episodes

JFMS Special Collection: Pain and Pain Management in Cats

This month, we focus on the JFMS Special Collection titled “Pain and Pain Management in Cats”, curated by Dr. Mark Epstein. Dr. Epstein highlights for us what is included in the collection, currently which offers over 10 articles, with more to come, addressing a range of topics related to pain in felines. This collection aims to equip veterinary professionals with the tools to diagnose, manage, and prevent pain in their feline patients.
JFMS Clinical Spotlight: Dr. John Stockman on Dietary Phosphorus and Renal Disease

In this episode, Dr. Jonathan Stockman, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), discusses his recent JFMS article, “Dietary phosphorus and renal disease in cats: where are we?” Throughout the conversation, Dr. Stockman explores the crucial role of phosphorus in kidney disease management and its connection to chronic kidney disease (CKD) in cats. He explains the differences between organic and inorganic phosphorus, the challenges veterinarians face in monitoring phosphorus levels in feline diets, and the risks associated with both phosphorus deficiencies and excesses. Dr. Stockman also emphasizes the importance of the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in feline nutrition and the difficulties caregivers encounter due to unclear labeling and insufficient regulation of phosphorus content in commercial pet foods. He offers practical solutions for managing phosphorus intake and explains how informed dietary choices can help prevent or manage kidney disease, ultimately improving the quality of life for cats.
JFMS Clinical Spotlight: Dr. Hugo Swanstein on Feline Friendly Point of Care Ultrasound

Hugo Swanstein, Cand Med Vet, DVM joins this episode to discuss his recent JFMS article, “Feline Friendly POCUS: How to implement it into your daily practice.” During the course of the conversation, Dr. Swanstein delivers insights and tips on the practical application of feline friendly point of care ultrasound (POCUS) and how it differs from formal ultrasound exams. Sharing a range of tricks and tips on how to incorporate POCUS into daily practice and stressing its value beyond emergency cases, Dr. Swanstein emphasizes that it can be effectively masters with short, consistent practice. He also broaches other concerns relating to time and cost, highlighting POCUS’s efficiency and affordability. Dr. Swanstein also stresses the importance of training for the entire veterinary team, including veterinary technicians, to effectively utilize POCUS.
JFMS Clinical Spotlight: Dr. Katie Tolbert on Gastroprotectant Use in Cats

Katie Tolbert, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM-SAIM, SA Nutrition joins us on this episode to discuss her recent JFMS article, “Rational use of gastroprotectants in cats: an evidence-based approach.” The discussion delves into the differences between gastric acid suppressants and protectants, the role of dietary fiber in feline health, and how to utilize a rationale, evidence-based approach to determine when to use gastroprotectant treatments.
JFMS Clinical Spotlight: 2024 AAFP Intercat Tension Guidelines

Ilona Rodan, DVM, DAVBP (Feline) and Daniela Ramos, MV, MSc, PhD, Diplomate (Cleve-CVLBAMC) co-chairs of the task force for the recently released 2024 AAFP Intercat Tension Guidelines: Recognition, Prevention, and Management sit down with us to share their valuable insights on the importance of understanding feline behavior and the importance of breaking down myths about intercat interactions. During the episode, the chairs delve into the significance of addressing intercat tension and educating veterinary professionals and caregivers on the subtle signs of tension. Topics that are explored during the conversation include the importance of dispelling myths about feline behavior, such as dominance hierarchies; the impact of intercat tension has on the five pillars of feline well-being; and how positive, consistent interactions and separate feeding areas help to reduce competition and stress among cats. Listeners are encouraged to read the full guidelines which include helpful resources such as case studies, a comprehensive table of psychotherapeutic medications, a detailed algorithm that outlines a systematic approach to intercat tension, and a step-by-step approach to introducing a new cat into a household with one or more cats.

View All

Featured item:Interested in the FelineVMA but not ready to join?

Featured item:Missed the 2024 Annual Conference?

Featured item:Catfriendly.com

Featured item:Celebrating 50 Years!

JFMS Clinical Spotlight: Dr. Alix Freeman on Mandibular Fracture Management