Central Orange County Emergency Animal Hospital

Tracheal Stenting with Fluoroscopy in Newport Beach: Airway Treatment for Pets

When your pet experiences breathing difficulties due to tracheal collapse, airway obstructions, or structural abnormalities, tracheal stenting with fluoroscopy offers a minimally invasive solution that can dramatically improve their quality of life. At Central Orange County Emergency Animal Hospital, our expert veterinary team provides advanced tracheal stenting for pets in Newport Beach, utilizing real-time fluoroscopic imaging to ensure precision, safety, and optimal results.

Understanding Tracheal Collapse and Airway Obstructions in Pets

Tracheal collapse is a progressive condition commonly seen in small-breed dogs such as French Bulldogs, Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Pomeranians. It occurs when the cartilage rings of the trachea weaken, causing the airway to narrow. This leads to symptoms such as:

Chronic coughing (often described as a "goose honk")

Labored breathing

Exercise intolerance

Gagging, wheezing, or noisy respiration

Fainting or collapse in severe cases

Other conditions, such as laryngeal paralysis, tumors, or trauma, can also lead to airway obstruction, requiring immediate intervention.

What is Tracheal Stenting with Fluoroscopy?

Tracheal stenting is a non-surgical procedure designed to restore airflow in pets experiencing severe tracheal collapse or airway constriction. Using fluoroscopy, a real-time X-ray imaging technique, our veterinary specialists place a self-expanding metallic stent inside the trachea, propping open the airway and allowing for normal breathing.

This technique provides a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery, reducing recovery time and minimizing discomfort for pets.

How Does the Tracheal Stenting Procedure Work?

At Central Orange County Emergency Animal Hospital, we ensure that your pet receives the highest level of care before, during, and after the procedure. The process involves:

1. Pre-Procedure Assessment

Comprehensive diagnostic imaging (X-rays, fluoroscopy, and sometimes CT scans) to evaluate the severity of tracheal collapse or obstruction.

Pulmonary function assessment to ensure suitability for tracheal stenting.

Pre-anesthetic evaluation to ensure your pet is stable and ready for the procedure

2. Tracheal Stent Placement Using Fluoroscopy

Your pet is placed under general anesthesia for comfort and safety.

Using fluoroscopic guidance, our veterinarians precisely position the tracheal stent to reopen the airway.

The stent expands inside the trachea, immediately improving airflow and reducing symptoms.

3. Post-Procedure Monitoring and Recovery

Continuous oxygen therapy and monitoring to ensure a smooth recovery.

Pain management and medications to prevent inflammation or infection.

Detailed aftercare instructions, including activity restrictions, medications, and long-term management strategies.

Benefits of Tracheal Stenting with Fluoroscopy for Pets

Minimally invasive: No large surgical incisions, reducing recovery time and discomfort.

Immediate improvement: Most pets experience instant relief from respiratory distress.

Enhanced precision: Fluoroscopic imaging ensures accurate stent placement, minimizing risks.

Shorter recovery period: Pets typically go home the same day or within 24 hours of the procedure.

Improved quality of life: Reduces chronic coughing, improves exercise tolerance, and prevents life-threatening airway obstruction.

Fluoroscopy pets

When is Tracheal Stenting Recommended?

While medical management (such as cough suppressants, bronchodilators, and steroids) can help in the early stages of tracheal collapse, tracheal stenting is often necessary when:

Medications no longer control symptoms

Your pet experiences frequent respiratory distress or collapse

Severe airway narrowing restricts normal breathing

A pet cannot tolerate invasive surgical procedures

Our veterinary team in Newport Beach specializes in identifying the right treatment approach for your pet’s unique needs.

Caring for Your Pet After Tracheal Stenting

Post-procedure care is essential for ensuring long-term success. Some key aftercare guidelines include:

Limiting activity for the first few weeks to allow healing.

Avoiding neck collars—switch to a harness to prevent pressure on the trachea.

Medication management, including anti-inflammatory drugs and cough suppressants.

Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor stent function and overall respiratory health.

At Central Orange County Emergency Animal Hospital, we provide ongoing support and guidance to help your pet adapt and thrive after tracheal stenting.

Why Choose Us for Tracheal Stenting with Fluoroscopy in Newport Beach?

As one of the leading veterinary hospitals in Orange County, we offer:

Advanced Fluoroscopic Imaging: Ensuring precise, real-time stent placement for maximum effectiveness.

Experienced Veterinary Specialists: Our team is skilled in airway procedures and emergency respiratory care.

24/7 Emergency Veterinary Services: Immediate care for pets in critical respiratory distress.

Compassionate, Pet-Centered Approach: Focused on comfort, safety, and long-term respiratory health.

Schedule a Consultation for Tracheal Stenting in Newport Beach

If your pet is struggling with tracheal collapse, airway obstruction, or chronic respiratory distress, don’t wait. Tracheal stenting with fluoroscopy can restore their ability to breathe and significantly improve their quality of life.

Call us today or visit our Newport Beach emergency veterinary hospital to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help your pet breathe easier and live a healthier, happier life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tracheal Stenting in Pets

What is tracheal stenting for pets?

Tracheal stenting is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small, expandable stent to open a collapsed trachea, allowing pets to breathe normally.

How do I know if my pet needs tracheal stenting?

If your pet has a chronic cough, labored breathing, or frequent respiratory distress, and medications are no longer effective, tracheal stenting may be the best solution.

Is tracheal stenting painful for pets?

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring your pet does not feel pain. Post-procedure, pets may experience mild discomfort, which is managed with medication.

How long does a tracheal stent last?

With proper care and monitoring, tracheal stents can last several years. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure continued effectiveness.

What are the risks of tracheal stenting?

While complications are rare, possible risks include stent migration, inflammation, or coughing. Our veterinary team monitors for these issues and provides comprehensive aftercare.

Can all pets with breathing problems get a tracheal stent?

Not all pets are candidates for tracheal stenting. A thorough evaluation, including fluoroscopy and diagnostic imaging, is necessary to determine the best treatment plan.

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