Vena cava anomaly · Persistent left cranial vena cava · Anomalie der Hohlvene · Vena-cava-Fehlbildung · Congenital vena cava defect
A vena cava defect is a congenital malformation of the large veins that carry oxygen-poor blood from the body back to the heart. This circulatory system issue can disrupt normal blood flow, causing pressure imbalances. It is typically diagnosed using an echocardiography, which is an ultrasound of the heart and its major vessels.
While many dogs remain asymptomatic, signs of severe defects typically appear during puppyhood. Owners may notice symptoms such as shortness of breath, low energy during exercise, or fluid accumulation in the abdomen.
Mild cases often require no intervention, whereas severe defects may need lifelong medication or specialized surgery. Treatment costs generally range from 500 to 5000 EUR depending on the severity.
More conditions affecting the Heart.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.