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

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