Cardiovascular Surgery and Conditions
At Phoenix Veterinary Surgical Specialists, we understand the critical nature of heart and lung health in pets. Our dedicated team of veterinary surgeons offers advanced cardiovascular surgeries and treatments designed to address a range of complex conditions. From congenital heart defects to thoracic surgeries, our goal is to improve your pet’s quality of life through cutting-edge care and compassionate support.
Our Cardiovascular Services Include:
Patent Ductus Arteriosis (PDA)
PDA ligation is a surgical procedure performed in dogs to correct a congenital heart defect known as patent ductus arteriosis. In normal fetal circulation, the ductus arteriosis is a blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the lungs, as the fetus receives oxygen from the mother's bloodstream. After birth, the ductus arteriosis typically closes within the first few hours to days.
However, in dogs with PDA, the ductus arteriosis remains open, causing abnormal blood flow between the aorta and pulmonary artery. This can lead to significant strain on the heart and lungs over time, resulting in heart failure and other complications.
During a PDA ligation procedure, the veterinarian surgically closes the patent ductus arteriosis to restore normal blood flow patterns. This is usually done through open-heart surgery or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the size of the dog and the severity of the defect.
After the PDA ligation surgery, most dogs experience significant improvement in their cardiac function and overall health. With proper post-operative care and follow-up monitoring, many dogs can lead normal, active lives without the complications associated with untreated PDA.
Persistent Right Aortic Arch (PRAA)
transection is a surgical procedure performed in dogs to correct a congenital vascular anomaly that affects the esophagus. In PRAA, a vascular ring anomaly forms around the esophagus, typically due to the persistence of the right fourth aortic arch from embryonic development.
This abnormality causes constriction of the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, and sometimes aspiration pneumonia. PRAA is commonly diagnosed in young dogs, often presenting with symptoms such as regurgitation of food, difficulty gaining weight, and respiratory issues.
During PRAA transection surgery, the constricting vascular ring is carefully identified and dissected to relieve pressure on the esophagus. This may involve removing a segment of the aberrant vessel or ligating it to ensure the esophagus is no longer constricted.
Following PRAA transection surgery, most dogs experience significant improvement in their ability to swallow and digest food properly. With appropriate post-operative care and monitoring, dogs can lead normal, healthy lives without the complications associated with untreated PRAA. Early detection and surgical intervention are crucial for achieving the best outcomes in dogs with Persistent Right Aortic Arch.
Idiopathic Chylothorax
Idiopathic chylothorax is a condition characterized by the accumulation of chyle, a type of lymphatic fluid, in the pleural cavity of dogs and cats. The cause of this condition is often unknown, hence the term "idiopathic." It can lead to respiratory distress and other complications if left untreated. Treatment for idiopathic chylothorax in dogs and cats typically involves surgical intervention.
Thoracic duct ligation involves identifying and ligating the thoracic duct, the main conduit for lymphatic fluid, to prevent chyle from entering the pleural cavity. This procedure may require advanced imaging techniques for precise localization of the thoracic duct.
Pericardectomy is the removal of part or all of the pericardium (a membraned that surrounds the heart), to alleviate pressure created by an abnormal pericardium and improve lymphatic drainage.
Omentalization for chylothorax is a surgical procedure that involves using a portion of the omentum, a fold of peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdominal cavity), to aid in draining chyle accumulation in the pleural cavity.
Lungs
Lung surgeries for dogs and cats encompass a range of procedures aimed at diagnosing, treating, or managing various pulmonary conditions. The most common procedure is a lung lobectomy. Lung lobectomy involves the surgical removal a portion or all of a lobe of the lungs. This procedure may be necessary to excise diseased or damaged lung tissue caused by tumors, abscesses, or severe infections. Lung lobectomy can help alleviate respiratory distress and improve the overall function of the remaining lung tissue.
Hernia repair
Hernia repair in dogs cats involves surgical correction of weakened or ruptured supportive tissue which allows internal organs or tissues to protrude through the weakened area. There are different types of hernias, including various forms of abdominal, thoracic and perineal hernias, each requiring specific surgical approaches for repair.