Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — Specialist Diagnosis & Surgery in Singapore
Compassionate care and 24/7 support to improve breathing & quality of life for your beloved pet.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Treatment & Surgery
What is a Brachycephalic?
“Brachy” means short, and “cephalic” means head. Brachycephalics have a short, wide skull with a short, flattened face. Examples of brachycephalic dog breeds include Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This condition can also affect cats, such as Persians, Himalayans, and Burmese cats.
What is BOAS?
The shortened bones of the face and nose alter the overall anatomy, creating a more compact structure. This can lead to respiratory issues, a condition known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
Abnormalities seen with BOAS
Stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils)
Elongated soft palate
Everted laryngeal saccules
Everted tonsils
Laryngeal collapse
Excessive turbinates
Hypoplastic trachea (narrowed windpipe)
How is BOAS diagnosed?
BOAS is diagnosed based on your pet’s breed, a thorough medical history, clinical signs, and a physical examination. Stenotic nares are detectable through visual inspection. Assessing for an elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, everted tonsils and laryngeal collapse requires an anaesthetic for a full oral examination, and is often performed just prior to planned surgical correction.
At the time of the consultation, a validated 3-minute exercise tolerance test will be performed on your pet. This test was designed by the University of Cambridge to produce a Functional Grading score, according to severity of symptoms displayed by your pet.
CT imaging of the head and chest is conducted to assess for excessive turbinates and a hypoplastic trachea.
Together, these diagnostic steps provide a comprehensive report on the severity and specifics of BOAS in your pet.
How is BOAS treated?
Early diagnosis is beneficial, as surgical interventions to improve airflow may help minimise progression of symptoms.
A multilevel BOAS surgery is crucial. This includes widening of nostrils, shortening and thinning of the soft palate, removal of everted tonsils and laryngeal saccules.
What about the aftercare?
It is very important that pets are closely monitored after surgery, as swelling can temporarily obstruct the airways during the first 24 hours.
At Westside, our patients are carefully monitored during recovery in an oxygen-rich environment, ensuring their comfort and safety. With round-the-clock care from experienced ICU vets and nurses, we provide the highest level of support to ensure a smooth recovery process.
Meet Our Team
Dr Derniese Goh
Dr Amanda Yew
Raniel Dalisay
Nicole Uriona
Why Choose Us:
Round-the-Clock Expertise for Your Pet’s Health
Enjoy peace of mind knowing your pet is in expert hands.
A Purpose-Built, Registered Veterinary Hospital
As one in four registered veterinary hospitals in Singapore, we are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including an ICU, ultrasound, CT scanner, and specialised surgery theatres.
Specialised Team Available 24/7
Specialised Team Available 24/7
With advanced expertise in specialist surgery, diagnostic imaging, emergency, and critical care, we provide 24/7 comprehensive care, with experienced vets on-site at all times.
Compassionate, Independent, Vet-Owned & Led
As an independent vet-owned and led hospital, we are dedicated to providing compassionate care and a personal commitment to every pet’s health and well-being.
3
Simple Steps to Care at Our 24/7 Vet Clinic
You and your pet will receive immediate assistance as needed.
Please reach out to us for before visiting so we can offer immediate assistance and prepare for your arrival.
Walk Right in Anytime
No appointment needed; we are here 24/7. Your Pet will be assessed upon arrival & cases will be seen based upon urgency.
Consult with
Our Vet
Discuss treatment options for your beloved pet with our experienced emergency vets.
Contact Our 24-Hour Vet Clinic in Serangoon, Singapore
It is highly encouraged to call prior to visiting the clinic so the team can be better prepared for your pet’s arrival.
Operating Hours
24 hours 7 days a week
(incl. public holidays)
Address
86 Serangoon Garden Way
Singapore 555982
Contact Number
Email Address