TRACHEAL COLLAPSE IN DOGS

Tracheal collapse is a common cause of chronic ''goose honk'' cough in toy-breed dogs, especially Yorkshire terriers. Tracheal collapse is u ncommon in large-breed dogs and usually involves an extratracheal caus e. The etiology of tracheal collapse in toy-breed dogs is believed to be multifactorial and probably involves a breed-related abnormality of tracheal cartilage along with inciting or perpetuating factors. The d iagnosis can be based on history, physical examination, plain radiogra phs, or fluoroscopy. A definitive diagnosis is made by tracheoscopy. L aryngeal dysfunction and bronchial collapse worsen the prognosis. If t racheal collapse presents as an acute respiratory emergency, the patie nt should immediately be stabilized in a stress-free oxygen-enriched e nvironment and treated with short-acting corticosteroid and a cough su ppressant (e.g., butorphanol with or without acepromazine). Medical ma nagement of chronic tracheal collapse depends on the severity of clini cal signs and may involve antitussives, bronchodilators, corticosteroi ds, and/or antibiotics. Weight loss is helpful but may be difficult to achieve if the patient cannot tolerate exercise. Surgical management is recommended if severe clinical signs have not responded to at least 2 weeks of medical management. This article also describes techniques for placement of tracheal ring prostheses.