Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Esophageal perforation diagnosis, treatment, complications, and outcome in a Standardbred colt.
- Journal:
- Journal of equine veterinary science
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Albrecht, Myriah et al.
- Affiliation:
- Hagyard Equine Medical Institute · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 4.5-month-old Standardbred colt came to the vet with swelling in his neck and a fever. After some tests, the vets found a hole in his esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. They performed surgery to fix it and put in a feeding tube, followed by a lot of care that included antibiotics and special feeding plans. Although he had some complications, like trouble with his lungs and a small issue at the feeding tube site, he fully recovered after a year and is now in great shape, ready for training. This case shows that with the right treatment, young horses with esophageal perforations can recover well and grow normally.
Abstract
A 4.5-month-old Standardbred colt presented for neck swelling and fever. Endoscopy and contrast radiography identified a full thickness esophageal perforation. Surgical intervention with fasciotomies and placement of an esophageal feeding tube was elected. Intensive postoperative treatment was carried out with broad-spectrum antibiotics, gastroprotectants and probiotics, calculated feeding plan, esophagostomy and fasciotomy site lavages, care, and cleaning. Complications included recurrent bilateral pneumothorax and development of an incomplete fistula at the esophagostomy site following removal of the feeding tube, necessitating primary closure. One year following presentation, the colt appears to have made a full recovery with an excellent body and muscle condition score and undergoing athletic training. Anticipated price of sale as a yearling was achieved. This study highlights a viable treatment route for youngstock with esophageal perforation that necessitate an esophagostomy. Despite intensive dietary needs of growing foals, appropriate nutritional requirements and normal growth rates can be achieved in such cases.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39187135/