DMVD - Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease
Degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) is the most prevalent cardiac condition in dogs, particularly in small to medium breeds. It involves progressive degeneration of the mitral valve leaflets, leading to mitral regurgitation, volume overload, and eventual congestive heart failure (CHF).
- Commonly affected breeds: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Dachshund, Poodle.
- DMVD is responsible for over 75% of heart disease in dogs.
- Once CHF develops, the median survival is only 6–12 months with medical therapy alone.
Limitations of Current Treatment
- Medical therapy: Pimobendan, diuretics, ACE inhibitors—these improve symptoms but do not correct valve pathology.
- Surgical repair/replacement: Performed only in select centers (Japan,), requiring cardiopulmonary bypass and extended hospitalization.
- Emerging transapical approaches: Still semi-surgical, requiring thoracotomy and access to the beating heart.
These treatments are expensive, invasive, and impractical for many pet owners and general practitioners
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