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Soft Palate Surgery

Soft palate resection surgery, also known as staphylectomy, is a surgical procedure in which excess tissue from the soft palate is removed, opening the airway. This results in improved breathing and quality of life. This surgery is commonly performed in pets suffering from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
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Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

A dog sitting

Causes

Brachycephalic airway syndrome is a genetic condition that affects breeds with short snouts and flat faces. Their genetics predispose them to upper respiratory abnormalities that can lead to airway obstruction and difficulty breathing. Most commonly affected are French or English bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers.

Symptoms

  • Symptoms may range from mild to severe and include:
  • Noisy breathing (snoring, wheezing, etc.)
  • Coughing, gagging, or retching
  • Exercise or heat intolerance
  • Restlessness and discomfort
  • Increased respiratory rate or effort
  • Rapid, shallow breathing OR slow, abdominal breathing
  • Blue or purple gums or tongue
  • Weakness or collapse

Difficulty breathing is life-threatening and requires immediate, emergency care.

dog with two vets

Palate Surgery: Purpose & Procedure

Purpose

Upper airway abnormalities that restrict airflow can lead to breathing difficulties, exercise and heat intolerance, and even life-threatening respiratory distress. Soft palate resection helps open the airway by shortening the elongated soft palate, reducing obstruction, and enhancing overall respiratory function.

Indications for Surgery

Your veterinarian may recommend soft palate surgery if your pet shows signs of BOAS. An exam of the palate will be performed to confirm the diagnosis and help the veterinarian recommend the best course of action.

Surgical Procedure

Pre-Surgical Evaluation: The pet undergoes a thorough, sedated laryngeal exam to assess the severity of the elongated soft palate and look for other abnormalities.Soft Palate Resection: Once the pet is under anesthesia, the surgeon carefully trims the excess tissue from the elongated soft palate with a CO2 laser, ensuring a proper length to allow for better airflow without compromising normal function. Recovery: Pets will stay in the hospital for several hours after surgery to ensure stable breathing. Most pets are able to go home that same day.

What To Expect After Surgery

After surgery, patients will need to be fed softened or canned food for five to seven days. Medications will be prescribed to reduce inflammation and ensure a comfortable, smooth recovery. Some pets require sedatives to facilitate rest and prevent over-excitement.

FAQs

What Are the Expected Outcomes?

Most pets experience significant improvement in their breathing, increased tolerance to exercise, and an overall better quality of life. While palate surgery addresses a major component of BOAS, additional corrective procedures may be necessary to address anatomical abnormalities and achieve optimal results.

When Should My Pet Have Surgery?
Earlier detection and surgical intervention lead to better outcomes. Soft palate surgery is often done at the time of a spay or neuter procedure, reducing the cost to pet owners and the number of visits for the pet.
Can My Pet Have Nares Surgery Instead?
A stenotic nares resection is beneficial to widen the nostrils and further increase air flow. The nares procedure is commonly done in addition to soft palate surgery. Alone, a nares resection would be unlikely to provide significant relief.
How Do I Care for A Brachycephalic Pet?
Having a pet with BOAS can be intimidating. Here are some lifestyle tips to keep your pet safe:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Avoid over-exertion, especially in the heat!
  • Monitor your pet closely when swimming or around water. Pets with BOAS are at increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. If they are in the water, apply a life vest that keeps their chin above the water.
  • Use a harness. Attaching leashes to collars can put pressure on your pet’s airway, and brachycephalic pets are predisposed to airway obstruction.
If you suspect your pet is experiencing airway obstruction symptoms, consult a veterinarian for an evaluation and potential treatment options.