Symptoms often include loud breathing, exercise intolerance, and coughing. Diagnosis is made using laryngoscopy under sedation, along with blood and imaging studies to rule out underlying causes.
Surgical treatment, such as laryngeal tie-back, is recommended for moderate to severe cases. This procedure opens the airway and greatly improves quality of life.
Our anesthesia team uses specialized protocols for airway surgeries, ensuring safe induction and recovery. Pain control and oxygen therapy are prioritized throughout.
After surgery, pets are monitored closely and typically show immediate improvement in comfort and energy.
Animal Surgical Care of PA provides leading care for laryngeal paralysis in Pennsylvania—where expert airway management meets heartfelt compassion.
Laryngeal Paralysis FAQs
What is laryngeal paralysis in pets?
Laryngeal paralysis occurs when the nerves that control the laryngeal muscles become weak or stop functioning properly. This prevents the airway from opening normally during breathing, leading to restricted airflow and respiratory distress.
What are common signs of laryngeal paralysis?
Common symptoms include loud or noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, coughing, gagging, and difficulty breathing, especially during activity or warm weather. Symptoms often worsen over time without treatment.
How is laryngeal paralysis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is typically made using laryngoscopy performed under sedation to directly evaluate laryngeal movement. Blood work and imaging studies may also be used to identify or rule out underlying conditions.
When is surgery recommended for laryngeal paralysis?
Surgical treatment is recommended for moderate to severe cases where breathing is significantly impaired. Surgery helps improve airflow and quality of life when medical management alone is not sufficient.
What is laryngeal tie-back surgery?
Laryngeal tie-back surgery permanently opens one side of the larynx to allow improved airflow. This procedure significantly reduces breathing effort and helps pets return to a more comfortable, active lifestyle.
What should I expect after laryngeal paralysis surgery?
After surgery, pets are closely monitored and often show immediate improvement in breathing and energy levels. Pain control and oxygen therapy are prioritized, and recovery instructions are provided to support long-term success.