Balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonic stenosis in two dogs: case report

Abstract

Balloon valvuloplasty for correction of congenital pulmonic stenosis (PS) in two dogs by intervention technique was first reported in Thailand. Both dogs did not show any clinical signs related to congestive heart failure. Physical examination in both dogs revealed heart murmur. Electrocardiographs of both dogs were recorded and showed normal sinus rhythm with deep S wave. In the first dog, thoracic radiograph revealed cardiomegaly with enlargement of the main pulmonary artery and left deviation of the apex due to right ventricular enlargement. Definitive diagnosis of PS was performed by echocardiography. Computed tomography (CT) of both dogs demonstrated stenosis of the pulmonic valve with immediate post-stenotic dilatation of the pulmonary trunk. Both left and right coronary arteries originated from their aortic sinuses. In addition, in dog no.2, the CT scan showed slight narrowing of the subvalvular area, corresponding to that seen during echocardiography. Both dogs received PS correction by balloon valvuloplasty under fluoroscopic guidance at the Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University. The procedures were successful as suggested by reduced pressure gradient without major complications. Seven days after the operation the pressure gradient reduced as assessed by echocardiography and both dogs remained healthy.