Successful management of tracheal stenosis using tracheal stenting in a Russian Blue cat

Tracheal stenosis in cats, often resulting from endotracheal intubation, can cause life-threatening respiratory emergencies, requiring prompt and effective treatment. In this case, we demonstrate that tracheal stenting can effectively manage respiratory distress caused by tracheal stenosis in cats.

A 12-year-old neutered male Russian Blue cat presented with progressively worsening open-mouth breathing and coughing that began post-intubation and inhalation anesthesia for dental scaling 5 months before presentation. Computed tomography revealed a broad-based lesion protruding into the tracheal lumen at the thoracic inlet, resulting in localized luminal narrowing. Tracheoscopy and brush cytology led to a provisional diagnosis of tracheal stenosis with reactive hyperplasia and chronic granulomas caused by endotracheal intubation. Following diagnostic processes, the cat experienced severe respiratory distress, eventually leading to a stupor. Respiratory distress was alleviated after tracheal stent placement. The cat was prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, bronchodilators, and antitussives and was discharged after 2 days of hospitalization. The stent remained well-positioned during the 27-month follow-up, with no complications or mucosal regrowth observed at the stenosis site.

This case is the first instance of using tracheal stenting to effectively manage tracheal stenosis in a cat, successfully resolving a respiratory emergency, and ensuring long-term care.