Short- and long-term outcome of dogs following surgical correction of a persistent right aortic arch.

Abstract

This study reports the survival to discharge, postdischarge survival, and long-term outcome of dogs following surgical correction of a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA). Information for 52 dogs, 28 dogs, and 23 dogs was available for analysis of survival to discharge, postdischarge survival, and long-term outcome, respectively. Ninety-two percent of dogs survived to the time of discharge and 18% of dogs surviving to discharge were euthanized within 2 mo of surgery. Breed, age at the time of presentation, and gender were not correlated with increased odds of death prior to discharge from the hospital. Long-term outcome for dogs was excellent in 30%, good in 57%, and poor in 13% of dogs. Although this study shows a relatively high mortality rate prior to discharge from the hospital and within 2 mo of surgical treatment, the long-term outcome is good or excellent in 87% of survivors. Dogs frequently display either residual clinical signs or require dietary modification long-term, but owner satisfaction is high.