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BOAS

BOAS certified assessors and surgical treatment for Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome in flat-faced breeds.

We have extensive experience in the surgical management of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) and are very happy to take referrals for these procedures. If you are a veterinary practice who would like our help assessing, treating and managing the recovery of a dog with BOAS, please contact us.

If you are an owner who would like our help with BOAS, please contact us.

BOAS Assessments

Our veterinary surgeons, Katie & Emma, are Kennel Club approved RFGS Assessors for the region. If you would like to refer to us for a BOAS assessment then your patient should be:

  • Over 12 months old of age
  • A French Bulldog, British Bulldog, Pug, Affenpinscher, Boston Terrier, Boxer, CKCS, Chihuahua, Dogue de Bordeaux, Griffon Bruxellois, Japanese Chin, Maltese, Pekiingese, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu and Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
  • Assessed every 2 years

What treatment can we provide for BOAS?

Treatment for BOAS is always done under general anaesthetic. Once anaesthetised:

  • We assess the airways with an endoscope to make sure no other issues are present.
  • We take an x-ray to measure the diameter of the trachea (windpipe).
  • We can then assess and surgically shorten the soft palate, so that it doesn't obstruct the entrance to the airways (soft palate reduction).
  • We can also correct the nares (very narrow nostrils) by surgically widening them, which results in immediate increase in air flow (rhinoplasty).
  • Finally, we can surgically remove everted laryngeal saccules (laryngeal saccule removal).

What recovery and post-surgery care do Portland Vets offer after BOAS treatment?

Surgery is aimed to improve the quality of life and because of the nature of the syndrome it is not always possible to completely resolve the problem. Patients have an increased risk on anaesthetic complications, so we monitor them closely in case further intervention is needed.

Some patients can go home the same day, and in some cases we suggest that patients are hospitalised overnight to allow close observation and they can then go home the next day.

Although this kind of surgery carries risks (like all procedures carried out under general anaesthesia), the beneficial effects are greatly appreciated by the dog and the owners as following a BOAS procedure, dogs can breathe more freely and enjoy a much better quality of life.

Surgical facilities at Portland Vets

Animals who attend Portland Vets for surgery and after-care related to BOAS, can expect the best facilities and treatments. Our surgical facilities are advanced in terms of both equipment and highly trained surgical staff, whilst our hospital wards offer a calm and comfortable environment, for respite and recovery.

Enquire About BOAS Referrals

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Available at:

East Grinstead • Horley

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