Transoral Endoscopic-Assisted Partial Arytenoidectomy as a Treatment for Laryngeal Paralysis in Eight Cats

Laryngeal paralysis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition in cats due to upper airway obstruction. Surgical arytenoid lateralization is generally considered the treatment of choice; however, complication rates in cats appear higher than in dogs, and alternative techniques may be desirable, particularly in emergency situations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of transoral partial arytenoidectomy for the treatment of laryngeal paralysis in cats. Eight client-owned cats diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis underwent transoral partial arytenoidectomy. Diagnosis was confirmed by direct visualization of laryngeal motion under light anesthesia. Clinical signs, perioperative findings, complications, and follow-up outcomes were retrospectively reviewed. All cats presented with severe dyspnea and inspiratory stridor and failed to respond to medical stabilization, thereby requiring emergency surgical intervention. No intraoperative complications occurred. No catastrophic or major complications were recorded. All patients showed immediate improvement in respiratory function, with resolution of dyspnea and stridor maintained throughout the follow-up period. Transoral partial arytenoidectomy appears to be a simple, minimally invasive, and effective surgical option for the management of laryngeal paralysis in cats, particularly in emergency settings. Larger prospective studies are warranted to confirm long-term safety and efficacy.