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Long-Term Outcomes of Permanent Tracheostomy Management in Brachycephalic Dogs Using a Silicone Stent: A Study by Dr. Janina N. Janssen et al.

Review from article: Janssen JN, Gradner GM, Liehmann L. Long-term outcome of

permanent tracheostomy management in two brachycephalic dogs using a commercial and a three-dimensional-printed silicone stent. Veterinary Surgery. 2024;53(4):761‐768. doi:10.1111/vsu.14085


In this study by Dr. Janina N. Janssen et al., the long-term outcomes of permanent tracheostomy management in two brachycephalic dogs were examined. One of the dogs used a silicone stent.


Both brachycephalic dogs with stage III laryngeal collapse underwent permanent tracheostomy. In one of the dogs, a male pug, the tracheostomy had constricted, causing occasional dyspnea when the stoma collapsed in certain positions. The owners were informed about the option of inserting a silicone Tracheal Stent (TS) to support the stoma and facilitate home care. This decision was supported by a study by Trinterud et al., which reported that silicone tracheal stents are feasible and safe.


The dog tolerated the silicone stent well, and its care was managed by the owners without need for assistance. The owners reported that the TS facilitated stoma care and that they felt more confident when it was in place, as the TS supported the opening  (Fig. 1)  In addition, the dog did not lose the silicone stent, even when exercising.


On follow-ups, the stoma did not change its general appearance and there was no bleeding or tissue necrosis observed when externally examined. 


Two years after first insertion of the TS, the owners were contacted and the dog was reported to be alive and well.


In the other case, a 3D-printed stent was used, but the printed material was more friable than silicone. As a result, the stent developed a crack after several rounds of removal and reinsertion, prompting the owner to replace the stent more frequently.


In conclusion, the use of a medical grade silicone stent is a reliable, simple and cost-effective method to improve the quality of life of our pets.


Dog with silicone stent after tracheostomy
Fig. 1 - Final appearance of Dog with the tracheal stent in place. (Janssen et al, 2023)


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