Evaluation of cervical esophagotomy for the treatment of chronic perforating esophageal foreign body in a cat

Abstract

Esophageal foreign bodies are an emergency medical condition
encountered in small animal practice as it can cause mortality if not
treated properly. Herein, we narrate an uncommon perforating
esophageal foreign body at cervical region of esophagus as well as its
diagnostic and treatment protocols along with postoperative
complication. A 10 months old vaccinated male intact Persian cat was
presented at Teaching & Training Pet Hospital and Research Center
after 28 days of incidence with the chronic signs of weight loss, lack of
appetite, dysphagia, regurgitation, retching, restlessness, ptyalism and
swollen of left lateral throat area. On the basis of relevant clinical
history and examination, a tentative diagnosis was made as foreign
body ingestion. After completion of initial physical examination, a
lateral view of cervical radiography was taken and a bony mass foreign
body at the cervical region was confirmed. Forceps based retrieval was
attempted but failed due to long lasting and site of lodgment of foreign
body. The last option, cervical esophagotomy was performed under
general anesthesia and found a sharp small part of fishbone already
perforated the esophagus. Removal of the mummified fishbone was
achieved successfully. The patient experienced an infection at operation
site at 8th days of postoperative and recovered after treatment.
Unfortunately, after 6th weeks of surgery, the catdied from unknown
acute vomiting and respiratory distress. The study concluded that the
early diagnosis and treatment and proper postoperative care is
important for good results.