Objectives: To compare neonatal survival to discharge rates between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic dogs undergoing cesarean section (c-section) and identify risk factors for neonatal mortality.
Study design: Retrospective study.
Animals or sample population: A total of 480 puppies from 90 bitches undergoing 106 c-sections.
Methods: Medical records of c-sections performed between January 2012 and September 2021 were reviewed. Data collected included brachycephalic versus nonbrachycephalic breed, elective versus emergency c-section, litter size (c-section and total [including those born prior to and via c-section]), and neonatal survival to discharge. A generalized linear mixed model (univariable and multivariable) was performed to evaluate variables versus neonatal survival.
Results: Overall neonatal survival to discharge was 93.1% (447/480); survival was similar between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic breeds (p = .221, 202/213 [94.8%] brachycephalic survival, 245/267 [91.8%] nonbrachycephalic survival). Puppies delivered via elective c-section were more likely to survive compared to emergency c-section (p < .001, 238/240 [99.2%] elective survival, 209/240 [87.1%] emergency survival). Puppies delivered in larger c-section litters were more likely to survive (p < .004) compared to smaller litters. Total litter size had no effect on survival.
Conclusion: Brachycephalism had no effect on neonatal survival. Puppies delivered via elective c-section were more likely to survive compared to puppies delivered via emergency c-section.
Clinical significance: Outcomes following c-section are similar between brachycephalic and nonbrachycephalic breeds. While it is preferable to encourage selective breeding for bitches that are able to whelp naturally, elective c-section should be considered in bitches at high risk for dystocia to maximize neonatal survival.
© 2022 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.