Intrathoracic tracheal avulsion in three cats.

The surgical repair of complete intrathoracic tracheal avulsion in three cats is described. The initial presenting signs included dyspnoea, exercise intolerance and exertional cyanosis. Diagnosis was based upon the clinical signs, survey radiography and tracheal endoscopy. The ruptures were repaired via a right lateral thoracotomy made at the third or fourth intercostal interspace. Abnormal trachea was resected and a standard tracheal anastomosis was performed. Surgical results were considered excellent in all cases.