INTRATHORACIC TRACHEAL AVULSION IN 3 CATS

The surgical repair of complete intrathoracic tracheal avulsion in thr ee cats is described. The initial presenting signs included dyspnoea, exercise intolerance and exertional cyanosis. Diagnosis was based upon the clinical signs, survey radiography and tracheal endoscopy. The ru ptures were repaired via a right lateral thoracotomy made at the third or fourth intercostal interspace. Abnormal trachea was resected and a standard tracheal anastomosis was performed. Surgical results were co nsidered excellent in all cases.