Dexter the pup has made veterinary history! He has become the first patient at Onderstepoort’s veterinary hospital to undergo a minimally invasive procedure to correct a congenital heart condition.
Pretoria, South Africa (22 September 2026) – Little Dexter was born with a heart condition called patent ductus arteriosus, or PDA.
In simple terms, PDA means that a blood vessel which should close shortly after birth stays open. This causes abnormal blood flow through the heart and lungs and, if left untreated, can eventually put serious strain on the heart.
The usual way of treating PDA is through open-chest surgery to close the vessel. While effective, it is understandably a much bigger procedure for a small patient to go through.
For suitable four-legged patients, there is another option.
Instead of opening the chest, vets can guide a catheter through the body and place a small device that closes the vessel from inside. It is a less invasive way of treating the condition and can mean fewer surgical risks, less pain afterwards and an easier recovery.
“Dexter, a four-month-old puppy, was diagnosed with a PDA and became the first patient at Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (OVAH) to undergo catheter-based PDA occlusion.” shares OVAH on Facebook.
After extensive tests and careful planning, Dexter was found to be an excellent candidate for the procedure and became the hospital’s very first patient to have it done!
The little pup was in excellent hands throughout his procedure and care. Dr Elge Bester led the procedure, supported by Dr Abdur Kadwa, Dr Nicolene Hoepner, Dr Michelle Morgan, Sr Adéle Rossouw and Sr Celine Lamprecht.
HLC Medical Consultants, Dr Anika De Witt, Dr Liana Coetzee, the ICU sisters, theatre staff and final-year veterinary student Melindie Schalekamp also played an important part in Dexter’s care.
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It adds that Dexter has recovered remarkably well and achieved an excellent outcome!
Dexter’s successful procedure marks a hugely positive step forward for the hospital and future four-legged patients suited to the procedure, as catheter-based PDA occlusion has now become available at Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital as an alternative to open-chest surgery.
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