Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome is a chronic, lifelong, primarily obstructive airway disease which adversely affects the quality of life of many popular dog breeds.

Consequences of airway obstruction and reflux-associated conditions in brachycephalic dogs can eventually lead to multiorgan dysfunction. Early recognition with whole-body barometric plethysmography can help to avoid delays in clinical decision making. Serum SOD is a promising surrogate marker.

Corrective surgery for BOAS, although associated with potential serious complications is often recommended with post-operative improvement is reported in 30–90% of cases.

Adjuvant medical therapy targeting gastrointestinal problems has been shown to decrease the risk of postsurgical complications and to substantially improve the prognosis and long-term outcome in over 70% of brachycephalic dogs. Weight loss, exercise restriction and environmental modifications, are also important in the management of brachycephalic dogs, regardless of the medical and surgical treatments.

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Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome: much more than a surgical problem