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Awake 160-Slice Computed Tomography for Upper Airway Evaluation in 17 Dogs
Marius B Stordalen1, Sharyn Bray1, Felicity Stringer1
1AURA Veterinary LTD, Guildford GU2 7AJ, UK.
Veterinary Sciences
|August 28, 2024
Summary
Conscious computed tomography (CT) scanning is a valuable tool for diagnosing canine upper airway diseases, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This method provides detailed images without sedation, reducing stress and costs for dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Radiology
- Canine Respiratory Diseases
- Advanced Imaging Techniques
Background:
- Upper airway diseases in dogs, particularly brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), pose significant diagnostic challenges.
- Traditional imaging often requires general anesthesia, which can introduce risks and alter airway anatomy.
- Non-invasive imaging modalities are needed to accurately assess airway structures in awake animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and diagnostic value of 160-slice multidetector computed tomography (CT) for conscious image acquisition in dogs with upper airway disease.
- To describe CT findings in dogs with untreated BOAS, previously treated BOAS, and other respiratory conditions.
- To compare CT findings with direct laryngoscopy and endoscopy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 17 client-owned dogs with upper airway disease, classified into three groups: untreated BOAS, previously treated BOAS, and other respiratory diseases.
- Conscious acquisition of 160-slice multidetector CT scans.
- Analysis of signalment, clinical history, surgical history, and CT findings.
- Correlation of CT findings with direct laryngoscopy and endoscopy results.
Main Results:
- CT scans in untreated BOAS patients revealed overlong and thickened soft palates (all dogs) and laryngeal collapse (four dogs).
- Previously treated BOAS patients showed normal soft palate lengths.
- Other respiratory disease patients exhibited findings like nasopharyngeal narrowing and tracheal collapse.
- CT findings were largely confirmed by examinations under general anesthesia.
Conclusions:
- Conscious CT scanning is a feasible and valuable diagnostic tool for assessing canine upper airway diseases.
- This technique provides crucial anatomical information without the need for chemical immobilization, reducing patient stress and costs.
- Findings offer new insights into the upper airway anatomy of awake dogs, particularly brachycephalic breeds, and support future research.
