top of page
Search

Treatment of tracheostomy in brachycephalic dogs with a silicone endoprosthesis

  • Writer: María Victoria Bignu
    María Victoria Bignu
  • Aug 20, 2024
  • 2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago

Why is a silicone stent necessary?


In brachycephalic dogs with severe respiratory pathologies, such as stage III laryngeal collapse, permanent tracheostomy used to be the only option to maintain a functional airway. However, in many cases, the stoma tends to narrow or collapse, compromising the patient's breathing and quality of life.


In this situation, the use of silicone tracheal stents is an innovative, effective and safe solution.


In this study by Dr Janina N. Janssen et al, the long-term results of permanent tracheostomy treatment were examined in two brachycephalic dogs. A silicone stent was used in one of the dogs.


Tracheostomy in brachycephalic dogs with a silicone stent: long-term follow-up of two clinical cases


A recent study by Janssen JN, Gradner GM, and Liehmann L. (2024) evaluated the long-term follow-up of two brachycephalic dogs undergoing permanent tracheostomy, one of which received a silicone stent (fig. 1). This decision was supported by a study by Trinterud et al which reported that silicone tracheal stents are safe.


Results after treating a tracheostomy with a silicone endoprosthesis



  • Excellent tolerance: The dog that received the silicone stent tolerated the prosthesis perfectly. No complications such as bleeding, necrosis or displacement were reported, even during physical exercise.


  • Facilitates home care: Owners reported feeling more confident and found it much easier to manage and care for the stoma thanks to the presence of the stent.


  • Durability and stability: Two years after implantation, the stoma maintained its original appearance, with no need for replacement or additional interventions.


  • Comparison with other materials: However, the second dog in the study, which received a 3D printed stent, had recurrent complications: the stent cracked after several extractions and reinsertions, requiring multiple replacements.

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

What makes silicone such an effective stent material?


  • High biocompatibility: No rejection or excessive inflammation.

  • Optimal flexibility: Adapts to the movements of the neck and trachea without traumatizing tissues.

  • Mechanical resistance: Tolerates continuous use and physical stress better than other materials such as 3D printed plastics.

  • Ease of insertion and removal: Allows safer and less traumatic procedures.


Conclusion: Why silicone stents are effective for tracheostomy in brachycephalic dogs


This study supports the use of medical grade silicone stents as a reliable, effective and affordable solution to restore breathing in brachycephalic dogs with permanent tracheostomy. Thanks to their safety, durability and ease of handling, silicone stents significantly improve the quality of life of our patients.


At ABTVet, we work every day to provide veterinarians and owners with high quality devices that give their animals the peace of mind to breathe effortlessly.


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



Comments

bottom of page