What is BOAS Surgery?
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) surgery is a procedure designed to alleviate breathing difficulties in brachycephalic dog & cat breeds. Brachycephalic breeds are characterised by their short skulls and compressed upper respiratory tracts, leading to various breathing issues collectively known as BOAS. These breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and others.
Components of BOAS:
- Stenotic Nares: Narrowed or collapsed nostrils that obstruct airflow.
- Elongated Soft Palate: An excessively long soft palate that partially blocks the airway.
- Hypoplastic Trachea: A narrower than normal windpipe, exacerbating breathing difficulties.
- Everted Laryngeal Saccules: Flaps of tissue within the larynx that become swollen and protrude into the airway, further obstructing breathing.
Options for Surgical Correction:
- Nasal Surgery: Widening of stenotic nares to improve airflow.
- Soft Palate Resection: Trimming of the elongated soft palate to prevent obstruction.
- Tracheal Widening: Surgical widening of the trachea to improve airflow.
- Laryngeal Saccule Resection: Removal of the swollen tissue protruding into the airway.
At-Risk Breeds for BOAS:
- English Bulldog: Known for their flattened faces and compact bodies, English Bulldogs commonly suffer from BOAS.
- French Bulldog: Another brachycephalic breed with a high prevalence of BOAS due to their short muzzles.
- Pug: With their characteristic wrinkled faces and pushed-in noses, Pugs often experience breathing difficulties associated with BOAS.
- Boston Terrier: These small, muscular dogs are prone to BOAS due to their short skulls and compact airways.
- Bullmastiff: Despite their larger size, Bullmastiffs can suffer from BOAS due to their brachycephalic facial structure.
- Boxer: Boxers may also be affected by BOAS, especially those with shorter muzzles.
- Shih Tzu: While not as severely affected as some other breeds, Shih Tzus can still experience breathing difficulties due to their brachycephalic features.
How Dr. Philip Simon Can Help:
Dr. Philip Simon, the founder of Your Family Vets, is an experienced veterinarian with postgraduate qualifications in surgery. He has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating conditions like BOAS, offering tailored surgical solutions to improve the quality of life for affected dogs. If you suspect your dog may be suffering from BOAS, Dr. Simon and his team can provide a thorough examination to assess the severity of the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.
If surgery is necessary, Dr. Simon will discuss the best approach to address the specific issues your pet may be facing, ensuring that they receive the highest standard of care in a safe and compassionate environment.
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about BOAS and how Dr. Philip Simon can help, you can reach us at:
- Phone: 01423 900770
- Email: hello@yfvets.co.uk
- Address: 61 Wetherby Road, Knaresborough, HG5 8LH
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us if you have concerns about your dog’s breathing or overall health. We are here to help and guide you through the best options for your furry family member’s well-being.