| text 
Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis is a congenital heart defect in which a malformation impedes the flow of blood through the heart. It is found in all breeds, though some (listed below) are thought to be at greater risk.
This illustration indicates a cause of pulmonic stenosis.
The outgoing flow of blood, from the heart to lungs, is partially blocked by a malformed valve. This 'pinches' flow and causes a restriction.
The effect of this partial obstruction is to force the heart to work harder to pump blood to the lungs. The extent to which a dog will be affected depends on the degree of narrowing (stenosis) of the valve area.
Affected Breeds
Various scientific studies have shown that this problem mostly affects the following breeds: English bulldogs, Mastiffs, Terriers, Spaniels, Boxers and miniature Schnauzers.
Symptoms
With moderate-to-severe pulmonic stenosis, your dog may experience respiratory difficulties, fainting, tiring with exercise, abnormal cardiac rhythms, abdominal swelling due to an enlarged liver or the accumulation of fluid, or even sudden death.
Outlook
Caught in time, pulmonic stenosis can often be relieved with 'keyhole' surgery in which a balloon-tipped catheter is temporarily inserted into the heart and inflated, thereby relieving the blockage. 85% of dogs treated this way show a good clinical improvement.
Pet Products
Novartis Animal Health is dedicated to find solutions to the health problems that cats and dogs face.
Visit products for dogs
(Overview A-Z)
Visit products for cats
(Overview A-Z)