Awake 160-Slice Computed Tomography for Upper Airway Evaluation in 17 Dogs

Simple Summary This study investigated using a high-quality computed tomography (CT) scanner to aid the diagnosis of upper airway disease in dogs without the need for sedation or anaesthesia. Data from seventeen dogs with breathing problems were included, and were classified into three groups based on their condition and whether they had previously undergone airway surgery. Commonly reported clinical signs included noisy breathing and difficulty exercising. Results showed this imaging technique may provide an efficient and safe technique to evaluate the anatomical structures of the upper airway. Understanding upper airway diseases better can improve treatment outcomes, especially for breeds prone to airway disease, laying a foundation for further advancements in veterinary care.Abstract This study investigated using a 160-slice multidetector computed tomography (CT) scanner for conscious image acquisition in dogs with upper airway disease, and describes findings in dogs that had previously undergone soft palate surgery. Seventeen client-owned dogs with upper airway disease were retrospectively reviewed, and classified into three groups: group I, "untreated brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) patients"; group II, "previously treated BOAS patients"; and group III, "patients with respiratory disease other than BOAS". Data included signalment, clinical history, direct laryngoscopy and endoscopy findings, previous surgeries and CT findings. CT scans in group I revealed overlong and thickened soft palates in all dogs, and signs of laryngeal collapse in four dogs. Patients in group II exhibited normal soft palate lengths, while patients in group III displayed various findings such as nasopharyngeal narrowing and tracheal collapse. Upper airway examinations under general anaesthesia confirmed most CT findings. This study demonstrates the feasibility and value of conscious CT scanning for assessing upper airway diseases in dogs, providing valuable diagnostic information while eliminating the need for chemical immobilisation, thus reducing patient stress and cost. These findings offer new insight into upper airway anatomy in awake patients, especially in brachycephalic breeds, and lay a foundation for future research.