By Dr. Marta Agrodnia, DVM, DACVS-SA,
Portland Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care,
www.pvesc.com
Tracheal Collapse is a progressive condition affecting mostly small breed dogs. The tracheal cartilage rings which make up the breathing tube are weak, and over time they can start to collapse creating a narrowed breathing tube. The disease is progressive because the longer an animal struggles to breath, the more suction pressure is placed on these rings, and the more they tend to collapse. A membrane which covers the top part of the tube, which is called the dorsal tracheal membrane, is also pulled inward and contributes to the narrowing of the breathing tube.
Owners can become concerned when their dog starts to goose honk cough. If the coughing interferes with the dog’s quality of life, or they are unable to breath well with their tongue turning purple or even blue, or if they cannot exercise – intervention is needed.
Initially veterinarians will check bloodwork and chest radiographs to assess the situation. In almost all cases, medical management is the best first step. If anti-inflammatory and anti-tussive medications can not control signs, it may be time to consult a specialist in tracheal stenting.
Tracheal stents can involve external stenting in young animals or internal stenting in older animals or those with a more serious collapse.
Dogs who receive an internal stent typically continue to cough, but can now pass air and are expected to do well for several years.
Complications include: Progression of disease, stent migration, stent fracture, tracheal infections, pneumonia, as well as some other less common concerns.
If you feel your dog should be evaluated for tracheal collapse, please contact your rDVM and consider referral to a specialist.