Turnip’s New Life
Dr. Etienne Côté
![Dr. Etienne Côté and a group of veterinary students examining a small dog](https://projects.upei.ca/avc-hospital-expansion/files/2024/04/avc_hospital_expansion_testimonials.jpg)
AVC’s first-ever atriotomy under inflow occlusion was performed in September 2021 transforming the life of a golden retriever puppy. The patient was diagnosed with a severe form of a rare birth defect called cor triatriatum dexter (CTD). CTD impairs blood circulation and had significantly delayed the puppy’s growth. Without treatment, he was not expected to have good-quality life.
“The combination of expertise here at AVC, right equipment, and the ideal candidate had not presented itself until now. This was an opportunity for us to change the puppy’s outlook from a poor prognosis to a real chance at a normal life.”
Dr. Étienne Côté, professor of cardiology, AVC
The patient is now home and doing well.