Smoosh-faced dogs and cats, brachycephalic breeds, are popular companions for many people because of their unique appearance and lovable nature. Pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekingese, Boston terriers, and Persian cats are a few beloved brachy breeds who often suffer from respiratory issues, such as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), because of their unusual facial anatomy. To alleviate the breathing difficulties associated with BOAS, surgical intervention is frequently recommended. Santa Monica Veterinary Group explains brachycephalic obstructive airway surgery intricacies, describing the procedures involved, associated risks, and recovery period.

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in pets

BOAS is a multifactorial respiratory disorder prevalent in brachycephalic breeds. The primary anatomical abnormalities contributing to BOAS include narrowed nostrils (i.e., stenotic nares), an elongated soft palate, a hypoplastic trachea, and everted laryngeal saccules. These structural anomalies hinder airflow, leading to various signs, including:

  • Mouth breathing
  • Reluctance to exercise
  • Persistent gagging or coughing
  • Labored breathing
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Change in bark or vocalization
  • Bluish gums
  • Fainting episodes
  • Heat intolerance

Many brachycephalic pets are susceptible to obesity as they are typically less active than other breeds. Excess weight can worsen BOAS, which is why keeping your pet at a healthy weight is of the utmost importance. BOAS is not only an inconvenience and discomfort for your affected pet, but the problem can cause life-threatening conditions impacting their heart and systemic health. 

Surgical interventions to correct brachycephalic syndrome in pets

Several surgical procedures aim to address the anatomical abnormalities associated with BOAS, improving airflow and alleviating respiratory distress in affected pets. Common surgical interventions have been successful thanks to surgical lasers, a less invasive, safer surgery modality. BOAS surgeries involve the following:

  • Nares resection — Nares surgery involves widening the nostrils to improve airflow. During the procedure, your veterinarian removes a small tissue wedge from the nostrils’ sides, effectively enlarging the nasal openings.
  • Soft palate resection — An elongated soft palate is a BOAS feature that obstructs the airway, impeding normal breathing. Soft palate resection involves surgically shortening the soft palate, thereby reducing airway obstruction and improving airflow.
  • Laryngeal saccule resection (i.e., laryngeal sacculectomy) — Everted laryngeal saccules contribute to airway obstruction and respiratory distress in brachycephalic pets. During a laryngeal sacculectomy, your vet removes the everted saccules, reducing airway resistance, and improving breathing efficiency.
  • Tracheostomy — In extreme BOAS-associated airway collapse cases, where other surgical options may be inadequate, a tracheostomy may be performed. This involves creating a surgical opening in the trachea to bypass the obstructed upper airway, allowing the pet to breathe more comfortably.

Brachycephalic syndrome surgery risks and considerations in pets

While surgical interventions can significantly improve a brachycephalic pet’s respiratory function and quality of life, these procedures do have complication risks. Potential complications associated with BOAS surgeries include:

  • Postoperative swelling and discomfort
  • Surgical site infection
  • Excessive scar tissue formation
  • Airway obstruction recurrence
  • Anesthetic risks, particularly in brachycephalic breeds predisposed to respiratory compromise

Recovery and postoperative care for your pet

The recovery period after BOAS surgery is crucial for ensuring optimal outcomes and minimizing complications. We provide postoperative pain management, antibiotics to prevent infection, and instructions for at-home care while your pet is recovering. Many brachycephalic pets are prone to pneumonia or postanesthesia complications, which is why we advise they remain hospitalized for a few days. Once your pet is home, you need to monitor them closely, restrict their activity as advised, and ensure a comfortable, stress-free environment conducive to healing. 

Postsurgical prognosis for pets

The long-term prognosis for brachy breeds with BOAS varies based on their condition’s severity. Pets who have surgery have a 95% to 98% chance of improved breathing and go on to live normal lives. However, if your pet has advanced BOAS, you must restrict their lifestyle, including avoiding heat, limiting activity and excitement, and managing their weight. As with any brachy pet, maintaining their proper weight dramatically improves their ability to breathe, sleep, and engage in mild to moderate exercise. 

Brachycephalic obstructive airway surgeries play a pivotal role in alleviating affected pets’ respiratory distress and improving their quality of life. By addressing the underlying anatomical abnormalities contributing to BOAS, surgical interventions offer viable solutions for enhancing airflow and respiratory function. If you have a beloved brachycephalic pet who struggles with their breathing, make an appointment with our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team for examination, diagnosis, and effective treatment options.