Available 24/7 for emergency and critical care. Contact us at 050 823 0780
Available 24/7 for emergency and critical care.
Contact us at 050 823 0780

Marina Village Branch
02 665 0085

Khalifa City Branch
02 550 411

EMERGENCY
Appointment
EMERGENCY
Appointment

GROUND-BREAKING CANINE HEART SURGERY PERFORMED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE UAE

The British Veterinary Centre (BVC) has marked a historic milestone in veterinary medicine in the UAE, successfully performing Canine Mitral Valve Repair Surgery for the first time. This groundbreaking achievement represents a significant leap forward in advanced veterinary care within the region, offering a new lease on life for dogs suffering from mitral valve disease.

The Medical Collaboration

Dr. José Botte, Head of Cardiology at BVC, Abu Dhabi

Professor Katsuhiro Matsuura, an internationally acclaimed cardiovascular surgeon from the University of Florida.

Their combined expertise facilitated seven successful surgeries on dogs diagnosed with mitral valve disease—the most common form of heart disease affecting canines globally.

Understanding Mitral Valve Disease

Mitral valve disease (MVD) affects the proper flow of blood through the heart, leading to heart failure if untreated. While medications can manage symptoms, surgery is the only definitive treatment to correct the faulty valve, restoring normal heart function and significantly improving a dog’s quality of life.

The Surgical Procedure

Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Temporarily taking over the heart and lung functions using specialized equipment, ensuring uninterrupted blood circulation during surgery.

Valve Reconstruction

Repairing the affected mitral valve to restore its normal function.

Postoperative Recovery

Comprehensive post-surgical monitoring and tailored rehabilitation plans to ensure optimal recovery.

Key Success Factors and Case Outcomes

Expertise

The combined skills of Dr. José Botte from the British Veterinary Centre and Professor Katsuhiro Matsuura from the University of Florida ensured each case was meticulously handled, demonstrating world-class proficiency in veterinary cardiology and surgery.

Support Systems

Contributions from Dr. Dorian Gaeta provided essential pre-and post-operative support.

Blood products supplied by the UAE’s Small Animal Blood Bank were critical during the cardiopulmonary bypass stage, ensuring a seamless surgical process.

Case Outcomes:

All seven canine patients have fully recovered and now enjoy.

A normal life expectancy without reliance on lifelong heart medications.

Improved energy levels and quality of life, allowing them to lead healthy and active lives.

For more information on mitral valve repair surgery or other specialized veterinary services

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