Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Canine tracheal collapse.
- Journal:
- The Journal of small animal practice
- Year:
- 2016
- Authors:
- Tappin, S W
- Affiliation:
- Dick White Referrals
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Tracheal collapse is a condition that often affects middle-aged small breed dogs. Symptoms can vary based on how severe the collapse is, ranging from mild coughing and irritation in the airway to serious trouble breathing. To diagnose this issue, vets typically use X-rays, bronchoscopy (looking inside the airway), or fluoroscopy (a type of moving X-ray). Most dogs can be treated successfully with medication and by addressing any other health problems they might have, but some may need surgery if their breathing is significantly affected. Surgical options, like placing a ring or stent to support the trachea, can be effective but come with risks and require skilled veterinarians. Overall, the outcomes for dogs undergoing these treatments are generally good.
Abstract
Tracheal collapse occurs most commonly in middle-aged, small breed dogs. Clinical signs are usually proportional to the degree of collapse, ranging from mild airway irritation and paroxysmal coughing to respiratory distress and dyspnoea. Diagnosis is made by documenting dynamic airway collapse with radiographs, bronchoscopy or fluoroscopy. Most dogs respond well to medical management and treatment of any concurrent comorbidities. Surgical intervention may need to be considered in dogs that do not respond or have respiratory compromise. A variety of surgical techniques have been reported although extraluminal ring prostheses or intraluminal stenting are the most commonly used. Both techniques have numerous potential complications and require specialised training and experience but are associated with good short- and long-term outcomes.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26780854/