Chennai Veterinarians Train in Advanced Canine Tracheal Stenting Procedure

Dr. G.R. Baranidharan, president of CSAVA, noted that this is the first time the procedure is being performed in India for dogs that do not respond to traditional treatments. Symptoms of tracheal collapse can include a persistent goose honk cough. Dr. Baranidharan, who trained in the procedure in the U.S. in 2017, led the program with Dr. G. Vijayakumar, Head of Clinics at MVC, demonstrating techniques on cadavers and live animals using an endoscope.

The program utilized a fluoroscopy unit at MVC, which enables real-time X-ray assessments to identify tracheal abnormalities. The stenting involves deploying a specialized stent in the collapsed area of the windpipe, offering significant relief to affected animals.

Brachycephalic breeds like Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Boxers are particularly prone to these issues, which stem from heavy inbreeding, according to Dr. Vijayakumar. While stents designed for animals are readily available in Europe and the U.S., Indian veterinarians currently have to use stents made for human use. Dr. Baranidharan emphasized the importance of fluoroscopic studies to accurately measure and select appropriate stents for dogs.

Although the cost of a stent is around ₹60,000, the procedure was offered free of charge during the training program to enhance accessibility. Dr. Vijayakumar suggested that government support, pet medical insurance, and subsidies for acquiring stents could increase the availability of this treatment for dogs in need. Currently, this procedure is accessible through the Department of Veterinary Medicine, led by Dr. Ram Prabhu, utilizing the combination of bronchoscopy, fluoroscopy, and stent deployment tools to improve the quality of life for dogs with tracheal collapse.