Congenital heart defects can sound frightening — especially when they’re diagnosed in a young puppy. But thanks to advances in veterinary cardiology, many of these conditions are now treatable, and in some cases, curable.

Nyx, a young French Bulldog puppy, is one of those success stories.

Recently, Nyx underwent a minimally invasive, catheter-based heart procedure at Mission Veterinary Emergency & Specialty (MVES) to correct a congenital condition called a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). Today, she’s thriving and expected to live a normal, healthy life.

What Is a Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)?

A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is one of the most common congenital heart defects seen in dogs, particularly small breeds.

Before birth, the ductus arteriosus is a normal blood vessel that allows blood to bypass the lungs while a fetus is developing. After birth, this vessel should naturally close within the first few days of life. When it doesn’t, abnormal blood flow continues between the heart and lungs — placing extra strain on each.

If left untreated, a PDA can eventually lead to:

• Heart enlargement

• Congestive heart failure

• Reduced exercise tolerance

• Shortened lifespan

Fortunately, when identified early, PDA closure is typically curative.

Nyx’s Diagnosis and Care Plan

Nyx was initially evaluated after a loud heart murmur was detected during a routine exam. An echocardiogram performed by Dr. Shane Murphy, board-certified veterinary cardiologist, confirmed a left-to-right shunting PDA.

At the time of diagnosis:

• Nyx showed no outward symptoms

• Her heart showed mild enlargement, but no signs of heart failure

• She was very young and very small

Because catheter-based PDA closure requires access through a femoral artery, Nyx’s cardiology team carefully monitored her growth over several weeks until she was an ideal candidate for the procedure. This patient-specific timing is critical to maximizing safety and long-term success.

A Minimally Invasive Solution — No Open-Chest Surgery Required

Once Nyx was ready, she underwent a catheter-based PDA occlusion using an Amplatz Canine Ductal Occluder (ACDO).

Rather than opening the chest, this procedure is performed through a small incision in the inner thigh:

1. Nyx was placed under general anesthesia.

2. A catheter was guided through the femoral artery to her heart using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray)

3. The PDA was precisely measured, and a specialized mesh device was deployed to permanently seal the abnormal vessel.

4. Repeat imaging confirmed complete closure of the PDA with zero residual blood flow

The entire procedure was completed with:

• Minimal tissue trauma

• No open-chest surgery

• Excellent visualization and precision

Recovery and Long-Term Outcome

Nyx recovered smoothly following her procedure and was monitored closely in our ICU. Follow-up imaging confirmed:

• The device remains perfectly positioned

• Blood flow through the PDA is stopped completely.

• Her heart is already beginning to remodel toward normal size and function

Because PDA closure is typically curative when performed early, Nyx is expected to enjoy a full, normal life with no long-term activity restrictions once healing is complete.

Why Early Detection Matters

Nyx’s case highlights the importance of:

• Early murmur detection

• Prompt referral to a veterinary cardiologist

• Advanced diagnostic imaging

• Access to minimally invasive treatment options

Puppies with PDAs may appear outwardly healthy, but early intervention can prevent life-threatening complications later in life.

Advanced Cardiac Care at MVES

At Mission Veterinary Emergency & Specialty, our cardiology service offers:

• Comprehensive echocardiography and other cardiac diagnostics

• Minimally invasive catheter-based procedures, including PDA closure

• Collaboration with anesthesia, ICU, and specialty teams

We’re proud to bring these advanced heart procedures to pets in the Kansas City metro and surrounding regions.

When to Seek Cardiology Evaluation

If your veterinarian has identified:

• A heart murmur in a puppy or kitten or at any age

• A suspected congenital heart defect

• Abnormal cardiac findings on imaging

Early referral to a veterinary cardiologist can make all the difference.

Nyx’s story is a powerful reminder that the right care at the right time can change a life, even the smallest one. 💙