Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in dogs undergoing MRI for a thoracolumbar vertebral column pathology

ObjectivesThe aims of the study were to investigate the prevalence and extent of gastroesophageal reflux, and the prevalence of regurgitation in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging, and to explore possible associations of reflux and regurgitation with signalment (breed, age, sex, neuter status), bodyweight, body condition score and drugs used in the anaesthetic protocol. Materials and MethodsThe thoracic part of the oesophagus was retrospectively assessed for presence and quantification of fluid on two T2 weighted sequences. Patient breed, age, sex, neuter status, weight and body condition score were recorded. Anaesthetic records were reviewed for the presence of regurgitation and detailed anaesthetic protocols. ResultsFifty percent [95% confidence interval (44.99, 56.81)] of included dogs had evidence of gastroesophageal reflux. Reflux was not associated with the individual breed, age, sex, neuter status or body weight. Brachycephalic dogs did not demonstrate significantly higher rates of reflux compared to non-brachycephalic dogs. A larger volume of reflux was associated with a higher chance of regurgitation. Clinical SignificanceGastroesophageal reflux is a common finding in dogs undergoing thoracolumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging. Dogs which regurgitated had higher volumes of reflux. Early detection and quantification of the volume of reflux is helpful as it may allow the anaesthetist to take measures which may reduce the risk of associated complications.