Description of a novel method for detection of sleep‐disordered breathing in brachycephalic dogs

Abstract

Abstract Background Sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB), defined as any difficulty in breathing during sleep, occurs in brachycephalic dogs. Diagnostic methods for SDB in dogs require extensive equipment and laboratory assessment. Objectives To evaluate the usability of a portable neckband system for detection of SDB in dogs. We hypothesized that the neckband is a feasible method for evaluation of SDB and that brachycephaly predisposes to SDB. Animals Twenty‐four prospectively recruited client‐owned dogs: 12 brachycephalic dogs and 12 control dogs of mesocephalic or dolicocephalic breeds. Methods Prospective observational cross‐sectional study with convenience sampling. Recording was done over 1 night at each dog's home. The primary outcome measure was the obstructive Respiratory Event Index (OREI), which summarized the rate of obstructive SDB events per hour. Additionally, usability, duration of recording, and snore percentage were documented. Results Brachycephalic dogs had a significantly higher OREI value (Hodges‐Lehmann estimator for median difference = 3.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.2‐6.8; P < .001) and snore percentage (Hodges‐Lehmann estimator = 34.2, 95% CI 13.6‐60.8; P < .001) than controls. A strong positive correlation between OREI and snore percentage was detected in all dogs (rs = .79, P < .001). The neckband system was easy to use. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Brachycephaly is associated with SDB. The neckband system is a feasible way of characterizing SDB in dogs.

Keywords

• apnea‐hypopnea index
• at‐home device
• brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome
• Obstructive Respiratory Event Index
• obstructive sleep apnea