Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How common is acid reflux in dogs having spine MRI
By Paran, E et al.·Published in The Journal of small animal practice·2023·Langford Vets, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in dogs undergoing MRI for a thoracolumbar vertebral column pathology.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs undergoing an MRI for back problems were found to have a common issue called gastroesophageal reflux, where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. About half of these dogs showed signs of this reflux, and those with larger amounts were more likely to regurgitate, which means they brought food or liquid back up. Interestingly, the study found that factors like breed, age, or weight didn't seem to affect the likelihood of reflux. Understanding this condition can help veterinarians manage anesthesia better and reduce complications during procedures.
People also search for: dog regurgitation after anesthesia · gastroesophageal reflux in dogs · MRI for dog back problems · signs of reflux in dogs
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aims of the study were to investigate the prevalence and extent of gastroesophageal reflux, and the prevalence of regurgitation in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging, and to explore possible associations of reflux and regurgitation with signalment (breed, age, sex, neuter status), bodyweight, body condition score and drugs used in the anaesthetic protocol. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The thoracic part of the oesophagus was retrospectively assessed for presence and quantification of fluid on two T2 weighted sequences. Patient breed, age, sex, neuter status, weight and body condition score were recorded. Anaesthetic records were reviewed for the presence of regurgitation and detailed anaesthetic protocols. RESULTS: Fifty percent (95% confidence interval: 45 to 57%) of included dogs had evidence of gastroesophageal reflux. Reflux was not associated with the individual breed, age, sex, neuter status or body weight. Brachycephalic dogs did not demonstrate significantly higher rates of reflux compared to non-brachycephalic dogs. A larger volume of reflux was associated with a higher chance of regurgitation. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Gastroesophageal reflux is a common finding in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging. Dogs which regurgitated had higher volumes of reflux. Early detection and quantification of the volume of reflux is helpful as it may allow the anaesthetist to take measures which may reduce the risk of associated complications.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36717107/