Tracheal collapse is a progressive disease of the cartilages of the airway. Although it is typically an irreversible, progressive condition in small breed dogs, many pets can be managed medically long-term. Tracheal stents can be placed in dogs with severe disease that progresses significantly despite medical management. Tracheal stents are not a cure for tracheal collapse, will not replace medical management, and will not prevent the cough resulting from tracheal collapse. A tracheal stent can reduce life-threatening episodes of cough and collapse resulting from this condition.
Medical management:
- Cough suppressants
- Corticosteroids
- +/- bronchodilators
- +/- antibiotics
- Sedatives
Medical management:
- Cough suppressants
- Corticosteroids
- +/- bronchodilators
- +/- antibiotics
- Sedatives
Reduces episodes of collapse
Augments medical management
No incision required
Can fracture/break
Can promote fibrosis and/or infection