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What is Subaortic Stenosis or SAS in dogs?
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What is Subaortic Stenosis or SAS in dogs?
Subaortic stenosis is a narrowing of the outflow tract from the left ventricule of the heart and is a congenital defect (present at birth). SAS is the second most common heart defect in dogs and is found in Newfoundlands, German shepherds, Golden retrievers, Rottweilers and Boxers. It usually develops over the first weeks to months of life and the onset of signs depends on the severity of the obstruction. The problem is detected by a heart murmur on veterinary examination. Other tests to confirm the diagnosis include radiographs, EKG, echocardiographs and perhaps cardiac catherization. While surgical procedures are available, the risks are great and limit the usefulness of surgical repair in most cases. Medical management will help to some degree in affected animals.
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