LP refers to the inability of the larynx (voice box) to move. The larynx is innervated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which allows the larynx to open during inhalation. If this nerve is paralyzed, the larynx stays in a half closed position and adjustments for increased respiratory effort such as running or panting during hot weather cannot be made. This results in poor oxygenation and overheating.
Normally, the blood supply draining the intestines travels through the portal vein into the liver where it is filtered, then returns to the heart via the caudal vena cava. A portosystemic shunt (PSS) is an abnormal vein connecting the blood supply returning from the intestines to the vein returning blood to the heart, bypassing the liver (shunting). Portosystemic shunts can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired. Acquired PSS can develop in pets that have progressive liver dysfunction. Congenital PSS can be found within the liver (intrahepatic) or before the liver (extrahepatic). Intrahepatic shunts are more commonly found in large-breed dogs such as German shepherds, Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, Irish Setters, Doberman Pinschers, and Irish Wolfhounds. Extrahepatic shunts are more commonly found in miniature and toy breed dogs such as Yorkshire terriers, miniature schnauzers, poodles, Lhasa apsos, and Pekingese as well as cats.
The ear is comprised of inner, middle, and external portions. The inner ear is responsible for balance and the connection of sound waves to the brain. The middle ear contains the tympanic bulla and ear drum. The external portions contain the ear canal and the pinna. A TECA is the surgical removal of the entire ear canal. A second procedure called a bulla osteotomy is performed during the same surgery. By opening and clearing the bulla of all infected material combined with the ear canal removal, the chances of future infection are greatly decreased.
The upper airway of dogs and cats comprises the passages that air moves through on its way to the trachea (windpipe) and lungs. These passages include the nose, sinuses, pharynx, and larynx. There are many different problems that can affect the upper airway and compromise the flow of air. Brachycephalic dogs and cats are more prone to upper airway abnormalities, and can often have several different conditions together. A brachycephalic breed is one that has a shortened snout and face such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Persians. The conditions most often found in these breeds are stenotic nares, everted laryngeal saccules, and elongated soft palate. When these conditions compromise respiration, surgical intervention is necessary.
A urethrostomy is a surgical procedure to create an opening in the urethra, the tube through which urine flows from the bladder and is voided. The surgery is performed to correct a urethral obstruction, which can be caused by protein plugs, stones, trauma, or scarring (stricture). A urethral obstruction is a serious, life-threatening condition, therefore urethtrostomies are often performed on an emergency basis. In male cats, a perineal urethrostomy, or PU, is performed and in dogs a scrotal urethrostomy is performed.
VSC is the only veterinary surgical practice in Northern Virginia to offer intraluminal tracheal stent and tracheal ring placement. Please contact us if you have further questions. More information coming to the website soon.
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