Brachycephalic cases are seen in dogs that display shortening of the soft tissues around the facial and skull bones due to years of selective breeding. Narrowed airways are common in breeds such as Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs, as well as others with shortened nasal passages that can lead to pronounced breathing difficulties.
Narrowed Airways results in a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) where problems exercising and sleeping can occur as well as increased respiratory noise and distress.
Corrective surgery is possible and can help to reduce the conditions associated with BOAS. Surgery may include procedures to widen the nostrils (resection rhinoplasty), to reduce the length and thickness of the soft palate (partial staphylectomy) or to remove the excess laryngeal mucosa.
Veterinary Surgeon Carl Jarrett has undertaken additional training in the techniques required to surgically treat Narrowed Airways affecting brachycephalic breeds.
This surgical technique opens the airway and increases the flow of oxygen, greatly improving some dogs’ quality of life. Please ask for an appointment with Carl if you are interested in learning more about this condition.
