Trattamento chirurgico del palato molle allungato con tacnica laser CO2 nel cane

CO2 laser assisted resection of elongated soft palate in 9 dogs is described. 7 dogs belonged to brachycephalic breeds, 3 of which have been treated for stenotic nares too. The technique was rapid and uncomplicated; the CO2 laser beam in superpulse program allowed precise resection without bleeding; no suturing was necessary. Breathing was noticeably improved in all dogs immediately after surgery. In 1 year older dogs clinical signs did not resolve completely following surgery. This suggest that immature dogs should undergo assessment and, if indicated, surgery as soon as any clinical signs are apparent. Use of the CO2 laser has proved to be a useful option and a good alternative to conventional surgical treatment of elongated soft palate in dogs. Parole chiave: palato molle allungato, laser CO2, sindrome brachicefalica, chirurgia, cane Key words: elongated soft palate, CO2 laser, brachycephalic airway syndrome, surgery, dog.