Courtesy of the doctors Giulia Boi - DVM, Luca Formaggini - DVM - RCVS - GPCert SASTS
Introduction
Emergency treatment for respiratory failure in dogs and cats can be challenging. A recent study from the Lago Maggiore Veterinary Clinic in Italy evaluates the use of Silicone Laryngeal Stents in veterinary emergency as a quick and effective solution for these cases.
Objective of the Study
The purpose of this work was to evaluate the short-term efficacy and tolerability of silicone laryngeal stents in the emergency management of canines and felines with severe obstructive dyspnoea.
Materials and Methods
Silicone Laryngeal Stents (ABTVet®)
Patient Selection:
Patients with laryngeal pathologies causing airway obstruction were chosen. These animals underwent oxygen therapy, sedation and blood gas analysis prior to laryngoscopy and stent placement.
Procedure:
The diameter of the stent varied between 6-8 mm for cats and small dogs, and 10-12 mm for large dogs. The stent was fixed with metal clips or sutures depending on the size of the animal.
Results
Patients Stabilised:
Nine dogs and four cats were stabilised using a temporary stent. All patients showed significant improvement in respiratory symptoms and normal pCO2 levels one hour after the procedure.
Observed Complications:
Some patients experienced mild cough and dysphagia, but these complications were minimal and manageable.
Conclusions
The use of silicone laryngeal stents is an effective, rapid and relatively inexpensive technique to stabilise patients with acute respiratory failure. Although surgical treatment remains the gold standard for resolving laryngeal pathologies, laryngeal stents provide a valuable palliative option in situations where surgery is not immediately feasible.
Benefits of the Laryngeal Stent
Immediate Stabilisation: Provides a quick solution to avoid the need for more invasive procedures.
Tolerability: Well tolerated in the short term in dogs and cats.
Flexibility: Allows time to plan definitive surgical treatment.
Final Considerations
Despite potential long-term complications such as coughing or granuloma formation, the silicone laryngeal stent presents itself as a crucial tool in the management of respiratory emergencies in animals. This approach not only improves the immediate stability of the patient, but also gives owners and veterinarians considerable time to decide on the best course of action.
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