Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Surgical treatment of intramural esophageal inclusion cysts in three horses.
- Journal:
- Veterinary surgery : VS
- Year:
- 1993
- Authors:
- Sams, A E et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Three horses were found to have cysts in their esophagus, which caused them to have trouble swallowing, swelling in their neck, and excessive drooling. Two of the horses underwent surgery to remove the cysts, and while they both survived, they faced several complications, including issues with the esophagus and surrounding nerves. The third horse had a different procedure called marsupialization, where the cyst was opened and allowed to drain. This horse healed well, with the opening closing up three weeks later and the esophagus appearing normal during a follow-up exam. The study suggests that marsupialization might be a better option than complete removal for certain cases of these cysts in horses.
Abstract
Three horses were diagnosed as having esophageal inclusion cysts. Clinical signs included dysphagia, swelling of the cervical esophagus, and salivation. Surgical removal of the cyst was attempted in two horses. Both horses survived, but multiple complications occurred, including esophageal fistulation and neurovascular damage. Marsupialization of the cyst was performed in the third horse. The stoma closed 3 weeks after surgery without complications, and endoscopic examination revealed a grossly normal esophagus. Marsupialization may be preferable to surgical removal for treatment of selected esophageal inclusion cysts in horses.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8511847/