Osseous choanal atresia in a canine patient

Abstract

A 2-year-old, male, intact dog presented with a history of stertorous breathing since infancy, unresponsive to antibiotic therapy. On rostral rigid endoscopy, there were no remarkable findings. However, computed tomography revealed bilateral atresia of the nasal choanae, with focal hyperossification and severe narrowing, with accompanying hypoventilation of the nasopharynx. Retrograde flexible nasopharyngoscopy confirmed the severe partial choanal atresia. Surgical intervention was declined by the owner due to reasonably acceptable quality of life; therefore, only environmental modifications and symptomatic care have been implemented so far.