Introduction
Tracheal collapse occurs frequently in small breeds. Both the intrathoracic and extrathoracic portions may be affected, also extending into the main bronchus.
Its aetiology lies in a deficiency in the cartilage matrix, which results in a collapse of the tracheal lumen.
Diagnosis
I) Clinical signs: cough, severe cough after exercise-excitation, syncope after coughing episode, hyperthermia, moderate to severe respiratory distress.
II) Cervical – thoracic, lateral and dorsoventral radiographs: – Inspiration: a narrowing of the extrathoracic tracheal portion and a widening of the intrathoracic portion can be seen on the lateral radiograph. – Exhalation: the lateral X-ray shows a dilatation of the cervical-extrathoracic portion and a narrowing of the intrathoracic portion.
III) Fluoroscopy
IV) Bronchoscopy
Emergency management and treatment
I) Oxygen therapy and sedation (butorphanol and/or acepromazine).
II) Anti-inflammatory doses of corticosteroids: 0.5 mg/kg IV methylprednisone.
III) Terbutaline 0.01 mg/kg IV, SC
IV) Active cooling of the patient if temperature > 39.5ºC.
V) Patients who must be intubated and cannot be extubated due to further collapse each time it is attempted are candidates for emergency surgery or tracheal stenting.
