Introduction

Nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) is a rare condition characterized by stertorous breathing sound and open-mouth breathing in both cats and dogs. Although traditional treatment for NPS is surgical resection of scar tissue, balloon dilatation and stenting have been attempted recently.

Objectives

A 4-year-old intact male mixed breed dog was referred for chronic bilateral nasal discharge and dyspnea. Skull radiographs and computed tomography revealed narrowing of nasopharyngeal passage. Retroflexed rhinoscopic finding included pinhole-sized nasopharyngeal orifice and scar tissue around the lesion. A diagnosis of NPS was made.

Methods

Balloon dilatation in the stenotic lesion was performed using a balloon dilator inserted retrograde fashion through the endoscopic working channel. The clinical signs were resolved, but recurred three weeks after balloon dilatation. A second balloon dilatation was performed under fluoroscopic guidance. In the second dilatation procedure, the balloon was inserted antegrade fashion through the nostril and covered with triamcinolone suspension.

Results

With four months follow-up from second dilatation, the owner reported that the clinical signs related with NPS had been completely resolved.

Conclusions

Balloon dilatation may be a minimally invasive and effective treatment for NPS, although repetition of the procedure may be required.