Welcome to FurWell Veterinary Hospital, where our veterinary team performs surgical treatment for laryngeal paralysis to help your dog breathe comfortably and safely in Greer, SC.
Laryngeal paralysis occurs when the nerves that control the cartilages of the larynx (voice box) fail to function properly, causing the airways to partially collapse during breathing. This condition is most common in older large-breed dogs and causes progressive respiratory distress, exercise intolerance, noisy breathing (stridor), and in severe cases, life-threatening airway obstruction. The most effective treatment is surgery to permanently open one or both sides of the larynx through a procedure called unilateral arytenoid lateralization (tie-back surgery). At FurWell Veterinary Hospital, we evaluate each patient carefully and discuss the surgical options, risks, and expected outcomes with you in detail.
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Before surgery, our team performs a thorough evaluation including laryngoscopy under light sedation to confirm the diagnosis, bloodwork, thoracic radiographs, and assessment of overall health. We discuss findings and the surgical plan with you.
The most common surgical treatment is unilateral arytenoid lateralization, in which a suture is placed to permanently hold one side of the larynx open, allowing adequate airflow. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
After surgery, your dog is monitored closely during recovery. Post-operative care includes activity restrictions, dietary modifications (elevated feeding), and monitoring for aspiration pneumonia, the most significant post-operative risk. Our team provides detailed instructions and schedules follow-up appointments.
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Laryngeal paralysis can progress to acute respiratory distress and airway obstruction, which are life-threatening emergencies. Surgical intervention before a crisis gives your dog the best chance for a safe, successful outcome.
After tie-back surgery, most dogs experience significant improvement in breathing, exercise tolerance, and overall comfort. Many owners describe a remarkable transformation in their dog’s quality of life after recovery.
Laryngeal paralysis is often part of a progressive polyneuropathy. While surgery does not stop the underlying disease, it addresses the most dangerous aspect and helps your dog maintain a comfortable quality of life.
Signs include progressively noisy breathing (roaring or raspy sounds), exercise intolerance, coughing, gagging, and voice changes. Acute respiratory distress with blue gums is an emergency. If your dog shows these signs, contact us at (864) 292-6433 promptly.
Tie-back surgery significantly improves breathing in most dogs. The main post-operative risk is aspiration pneumonia, which occurs in a minority of patients. Our team discusses risks and how to minimize them before surgery and during recovery.
Most dogs recover well from tie-back surgery within 4–6 weeks. Dietary modifications (elevated feeding, soft food) are required long-term to reduce aspiration risk. Our team guides you through all aftercare requirements.
The cost of laryngeal paralysis surgery varies depending on your dog’s size and specific needs. Our team provides transparent estimates before proceeding. For pricing information, call (864) 292-6433.
To schedule a consultation, call (864) 292-6433 or visit FurWell Veterinary Hospital at 1901 Brushy Creek Rd, Greer, SC 29650. We are open Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
If your dog has noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, or has been diagnosed with laryngeal paralysis, contact FurWell Veterinary Hospital. Call us at (864) 292-6433 or visit us at 1901 Brushy Creek Rd, Greer, SC 29650. We are open Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
