Mission Veterinary Emergency & Specialty
Minimally Invasive Cardiac
Catheter-Based Heart Procedure
No Open Chest Surgery Required
Under the direction of Dr. Shane Murphy, our cardiology team performs catheter-based PDA closure in dogs using specialized implantable devices such as the Amplatz® Canine Ductal Occluder (ACDO).
Instead of performing open-chest surgery, this procedure is completed through a small incision in the inner thigh.
Benefits of minimally invasive heart procedures include:
No thoracotomy (open chest surgery)
Minimal tissue trauma
Reduced post-operative discomfort
Shorter recovery time
Excellent procedural precision
When performed early, this minimally invasive cardiac procedure is typically curative and allows pets to live full, normal lives without long-term activity restrictions.
During the procedure:
The patient is placed under general anesthesia
A catheter is guided through the femoral artery to the heart
Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) provides precise visualization
The PDA is carefully measured
A specialized occlusion device is deployed to permanently seal the abnormal vessel
Post-procedure imaging confirms complete closure of the abnormal blood flow.
Comprehensive Cardiac Evaluation
Early detection is critical. Many puppies and kittens with congenital heart defects may appear outwardly healthy, even while significant cardiac changes are developing.
As a board-certified veterinary cardiologist in Kansas City, Dr. Murphy provides comprehensive cardiac evaluation using:
Advanced echocardiography
Doppler evaluation of blood flow
Thoracic imaging
Electrocardiography (ECG)
Detailed interpretation and treatment planning
These diagnostic tools allow for accurate diagnosis, careful monitoring, and optimal timing of intervention.
Advanced Cardiology Services at MVES
Our cardiology service collaborates closely with our board-certified anesthesiologists, 24/7 ICU team, and specialty departments to provide coordinated, patient-centered care throughout every stage of treatment.
At MVES, we offer:
Advanced cardiac diagnostics
Minimally invasive catheter-based heart procedures
PDA closure in dogs
Continuous ICU monitoring
Long-term cardiac management and follow-up care
By combining specialized expertise with advanced technology, MVES delivers state-of-the-art veterinary cardiology services in Kansas City and the surrounding region.
When to Seek a Veterinary Cardiologist
If your primary veterinarian identifies:
A heart murmur at any age
A suspected congenital heart defect
Abnormal cardiac findings on imaging
Signs of exercise intolerance, coughing, or poor growth
Early referral to a veterinary cardiologist can significantly improve long-term outcomes and prevent irreversible cardiac damage.
