From time to time we come across conditions or illnesses that need specialist attention. In these cases we may sometimes arrange for your pet to a visit a referral centre that deals with advanced techniques. One such patient is "Bess" a 4 &1/2 year old Korthals Griffon who has recently undergone surgery for her heart condition.

Bess was diagnosed with a heart murmur which on further investigation turned out to be a PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus)

A PDA is a tiny vessel in the heart, which should close after birth. In some cases it remains open, allowing blood to shunt from the left side of the heart to the right; causing over circulation of the lung fields and extra pressure of the left side of the heart. Unfortunately, this can eventually lead to heart failure.

While Bess was showing no symptoms of heart failure, it was important that the problem was corrected to prevent this from occurring in the future.

One option for correction is open heart surgery, but other much less invasive techniques are available and this is what was arranged for Bess.

Bess was referred to Willows Referral Centre, in Birmingham, where some of the best cardiologists in the country are based. Here, she underwent an angiogram and fluoroscopy procedure via a catheter, placed in her femoral artery, to view the duct. A clip was then placed via the catheter to occlude the duct. An ultrasound was performed to check the result, which revealed the defect had been completely closed - an excellent result.

Post surgery, Bess was left with only a 1cm wound on the inside of her thigh, and was soon keen to get back to her normal bouncy self! Two weeks later she is doing brilliantly and is rather fed up of lead exercise only.

Here's a few words from one of Bess's Owners - Jane Taylor

"When we found out that Bess had been diagnosed with a congenital PDA, our whole family was devastated. How could such a young, fit and healthy dog run the risk of something as serious as heart failure? St. Boniface advised us that there was an operation Bess could undertake by one of the best surgeons in the country that would mean she could live a normal life, but of course it came at a price. Thanks to the support our vet Marie Kemmish provided, we gained authorisation from our insurers prior to making any decision, and promptly booked Bess in to the Willows Veterinary Clinic in Solihull for her operation. That was two weeks ago. Bess had her stitches removed on Monday, and today has been let off the lead to run free in our field. We are extremely grateful to Jo Harris - visiting cardiologist, Marie and the St. Boniface team, and everyone at the Willows for making Bess's life normal again."

Clicking the link will take you to the Willows website where you can view a video of a PDA angiogram - Willows - PDA angiogram.

Having a pet referred to an unfamiliar clinic, sometimes miles away (as in Bess's case) can be a daunting and scary experience. Whilst we do our best to do as much as we can at St Boniface, by continuing to invest in the latest equipment and training, sometimes certain conditions need specialist intervention. If this is necessary for your pet we will do our best to make the process as smooth as possible. We will liaise with the referral clinic for you, send across any necessary history and files and provide clear directions to get you there safely! We then follow up with the referral centre in order to seamlessly pick up the after care.

If you are concerned about the health of your pet, please give the practice a call and book in for a consuiltation - 01363 772860.