RESUMEN
The response to treatment of brachycephalic airway syndrome (BAS) varies among brachycephalic dog breeds. We hypothesized that variations in nasal structure are one of the factors responsible for this difference. To confirm this variation, we measured the ratio of the airway cross-sectional area to the total nasal cavity area (AA/NC) in three brachycephalic dog breeds. Head CT images of French bulldogs, shih tzus, and pugs were retrospectively collected. Four specific transverse planes were used to calculate AA/NC ratios. Fifty brachycephalic dogs were included in the study: French bulldogs (n = 20), shih tzus (n = 20), and pugs (n = 10). The AA/NC ratio of Shih Tzus was larger in the rostral nasal cavity and smaller toward the caudal area, whereas the other two breeds showed an inverse tendency. The results obtained from the current research indicate that the AA/NC ratio can be used to evaluate the structure of the nasal cavity. Moreover, analyzing the point with the smallest AA/NC ratio can be useful in quantifying nasal airway obstruction and the severity of BAS. These results will be useful in understanding the complexity of BAS pathophysiology and in the implementation of treatment.
RESUMEN
CASE DESCRIPTION: An 11-year-old sexually intact male Shih Tzu diagnosed with acute kidney injury and left-sided congestive heart failure that had nonelective mitral valve surgery. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Metabolic alkalosis developed postoperatively, and plasma bicarbonate concentration peaked 2 days after surgery (40.2 mmol/L; pH, 7.550). TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Acetazolamide administration increased the urinary excretion of bicarbonate and contributed to the improvement of the dog's acid-base status and oxygenation capacity. Metabolic alkalosis persisted for 4 days after surgery, and no treatment was required after resolution. Plasma urea nitrogen and creatinine concentrations normalized 2 days after surgery. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Severe metabolic alkalosis can occur as a complication following mitral valve surgery. Acetazolamide may be suitable for the treatment of severe metabolic alkalosis.