Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Esophagostomy tubes as a method of nutritional management in cats: a retrospective study.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
- Year:
- 1997
- Authors:
- Levine, P B et al.
- Affiliation:
- Northlake Veterinary Specialists · United States
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
In a study involving 60 cats, researchers looked at the use of esophagostomy tubes, which are feeding tubes placed in the esophagus, to help manage nutrition. The main reason for using these tubes was liver disease. While there were some minor complications during the tube placement in a few cats, most issues occurred during the management of the tubes, including inflammation or infection at the tube site, swelling of the head, and vomiting. On average, the tubes were in place for about 23 days, and most of the cats either maintained or gained weight while being fed through these tubes. Overall, the treatment was effective in helping the cats get the nutrition they needed.
Abstract
The use of esophagostomy tubes in 60 feline patients was evaluated retrospectively. Indications for tube placement, complications associated with placement and management, duration of treatment, and change in patient body weight were evaluated. Hepatic disease was the most common indication for tube placement. A minor complication associated with the surgical technique for tube placement was observed in three cases. Inflammation or infection of the tube site, swelling of the head, or vomition of the tube were observed complications during management in 19 cases. Vomiting occurred and was a complicating factor in nine cases. The average duration of tube placement was 23 days, and most patients maintained or gained weight while being fed through their esophagostomy tubes.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9278115/