New Surgical Technique Developed to Help Tracheal Collapse in Dogs

Surgeons at the MU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital University of Missouri Veterinary Hospital have unveiled a new surgical procedure to help save dogs suffering from tracheal collapse. Currently, only MU performs this particular procedure. Surgeons insert a tiny spring-like device called an intra-luminal stent made of nitinol into the trachea to keep it from collapse.

Dogs getting the spring have been recovering in hours. One lucky Yorkshire terrier, Jack, had his oral membranes return to normal coloration in only two weeks after receiving his stent. He is also running about his yard as usual. MU cautions that the stent is a last-ditch effort used only if the conventional ways of treating tracheal collapse have failed. It is still unknown what the long-term effects of an intra-luminal stent can be.

Conventional Treatments

Dogs with tracheal collapse are placed on bronchodilators, cough suppressants or other drugs to help keep their airway open. Some dogs may also receive antibiotics. If a dog does not improve within two weeks, then surgery to insert polypropelyne rings on the outside of the trachea is performed. However, the mortality for this particular surgery is high, especially if the dog is over 6 years old, notes the ASPCA.

There are almost no incisions required to insert an intra-luminal stent, but a dog does need to be under general anesthesia. The stent is placed with the help of an endoscope. The endoscope is a must for the tiny tracheas of toy breeds. MU associate professor and veterinarian Carol Reinero notes that the procedure needs "a great deal of planning and precision."

About Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse mostly affects toy and small dogs. Cartilage that holds open the trachea degenerates and cause it to collapse and shut off a dog's air supply. It is unknown what causes tracheal collapse. But since it is most often seen in Yorkshire terriers, there may be a genetic cause or predisposition.

Symptoms of tracheal collapse include "honking" or a honk-like cough, problems breathing, can barely get through normal exercise without excessive panting or collapse. Breathing problems come sporadically at first, especially after exercise, exposure to allergens like cigarette smoke or stress. The gums turn blue in severe cases because of lack of oxygen getting to the oral membranes. Dogs with tracheal collapse usually die from the disease.

References

Science Daily. "For common toy breed windpipe issue, veterinarians use technology and precision." October 5, 2011. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/10/111004132543.htm

Physorg.com. October 4, 2011 http://www.physorg.com/news/2011-10-common-toy-dog-windpipe-issue.html

ASPCA. "Tracheal Collapse." http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/dog-care-tracheal-collapse.aspx