Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Treatment & Surgery
What is a Brachycephalic?
“Brachy" means short, and "cephalic" means head. Brachycephalics have a short, wide skull with a short, flattened face. Examples of brachycephalic dog breeds include Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This condition can also affect cats, such as Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese cats.
What is BOAS?
The shortened bones of the face and nose alter the overall anatomy, creating a more compact structure. This can lead to respiratory issues, a condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
Abnormalities seen with BOAS
Stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils) Elongated soft palate Everted laryngeal saccules Everted tonsils Laryngeal collapse Excessive turbinates Hypoplastic trachea (narrowed windpipe)
How is BOAS diagnosed?
BOAS is diagnosed based on your pet's breed, a thorough medical history, clinical signs, and a physical examination. Stenotic nares are detectable through visual inspection. Assessing for an elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, everted tonsils and laryngeal collapse requires an anaesthetic for a full oral examination, and is often performed just prior to planned surgical correction. At the time of the consultation, a validated 3-minute exercise tolerance test will be performed on your pet. This test was designed by the University of Cambridge to produce a Functional Grading score, according to severity of symptoms displayed by your pet. CT imaging of the head and chest is conducted to assess for excessive turbinates and a hypoplastic trachea. Together, these diagnostic steps provide a comprehensive report on the severity and specifics of BOAS in your pet.
How is BOAS treated?
Early diagnosis is beneficial, as surgical interventions to improve airflow may help minimise progression of symptoms. A multilevel BOAS surgery is crucial. This includes widening of nostrils, shortening and thinning of the soft palate, removal of everted tonsils and laryngeal saccules.
What about the aftercare?
It is very important that pets are closely monitored after surgery, as swelling can temporarily obstruct the airways during the first 24 hours. At Westside, our patients are carefully monitored during recovery in an oxygen-rich environment, ensuring their comfort and safety. With round-the-clock care from experienced ICU vets and nurses, we provide the highest level of support to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Why Choose Westside for Surgical Treatment?
Dr Goh was one of the first few surgeons involved in introducing the Functional Grading Scheme for brachycephalic dogs in Australia, with the aim to enhance genetics through responsible breeding and improve overall health for brachycephalics. Our vets at Westside have also completed a Functional Grading Assessor Training, further advancing our skills to better care for your pet. We understand that your brachycephalic pet requires extra attention, and we're here to offer the specialized care they need.