Lung lobe torsion is a rare condition where a lung lobe twists on its attachment, cutting off its blood supply. Affected dogs are usually 4-5 years old, with males being more prone. Causes for lung torsions can be spontaneous or linked to conditions like chylothorax, tumours, or prior thoracic surgery. The twisting leads to lung congestion, fluid buildup (pleural effusion), or air in the chest (pneumothorax), making breathing difficult. Symptoms can range from sudden to a more gradual onset, including coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. To diagnose lung lobe torsion, blood tests and imaging like x-rays or CT scans are essential. Treatment begins with stabilizing the patient, often requiring drainage of fluid or air through a procedure called thoracocentesis. The definitive treatment is surgical removal of the affected lung lobe (lobectomy), performed through a thoracotomy (incision into the chest).
