RCVS Trust awards Jim Gourley Prize to Kent vet

The RCVS Trust continues its investment in innovative and high-calibre projects by awarding the Jim Gourley Prize 2004.

This year's winner is Martin James BVMS MRCVS (pictured), based at Darwin Veterinary Centre, Biggin Hill, Kent, for his description of a new technique for the repair of separated mandibular symphyses (fractured lower jaws) in the cat as a result of road traffic accidents or falls from high windows.

Mr James's technique is an adaption of a standard stabilisation procedure (that uses a single loop of wire) to hold the fractured mandibles in place with less movement.

He has enjoyed good success with this method  and has suggested that it could even be adapted for use in dogs.

On hearing the news of his award, Mr James said, "I was surprised and delighted to be awarded the Jim Gourley prize for 2004. I hope that other practitioners find this technique for repairing dislocated mandibular symphyses as helpful as I have."

Gerri McHugh, RCVS Trust Director added, "We are so pleased to award the Jim Gourley Prize to Martin James this year. Encouraging and supporting innovation at practice level is a key element of the Trust's grant-making philosophy."

A full description of this technique, together with the diagrams below, was first published in Veterinary Times (Vol 34, No 32) on 23 August 2004.