Cor triatriatum dexter heart defect in 17 dogs and their outcomes

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to report the signalment, presentation, clinical and imaging findings, interventions, and outcomes in a group of dogs with cor triatriatum dexter (CTD). ANIMALS: Seventeen client-owned dogs. METHODS: Medical records were reviewed retrospectively for signalment, history, physical examination findings, imaging and diagnostic findings, presence of concurrent congenital cardiac defects, description of interventional procedures, therapy information, and outcomes. RESULTS: Age at presentation ranged from two to 110 months, with 10 of 17 dogs (59%) aged <12 months. There was an equal distribution between the sexes. Peritoneal effusion was the most common presenting complaint, in 10 of 17 dogs (59%). The CTD was an isolated finding in 3 of 17 dogs (18%); the remaining 14 of 17 (82%) dogs had concurrent cardiac disease, with congenital anomalies present in 12 of 17 (70%). All except one of these 12 dogs had at least one additional condition affecting the right heart. Tricuspid valve dysplasia was the most common congenital comorbidity, present in 9 of 17 dogs (53%). Seven dogs (41%) underwent interventional treatment of their CTD. In 7 of 17 (41%) cases, the CTD was considered to be incidental and the dogs were asymptomatic; therefore, no interventions were performed. The remaining three cases were euthanized or lost to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Cor triatriatum dexter in dogs is commonly seen in association with other right-sided congenital cardiac anomalies and may be an incidental finding. Dogs with CTD obstructing right atrial inflow can have a good outcome after intervention. Dogs with no clinical signs associated with the CTD may remain asymptomatic into adulthood.