Surgical Conditions of the Oesophagus

Surgical conditions of the oesophagus are relatively uncommon in cats and dogs making this an area in which most of us have limited experience. In this lesson we cover some of the basic principles that we should follow when performing oesophageal surgery and we will consider some of the more common surgical diseases of the oesophagus that we are most likely to encounter in general practice in a little more detail.

By the end of this lesson you should be able to:

• Describe normal oesophageal function and the basic mechanisms in which this can be affected by disease;

• List the clinical signs of oesophageal disease and explain these in relation to the underlying pathophysiology;

• Formulate a plan to investigate suspected disease of the oesophagus;

• List the indications for performing surgery on the oesophagus;

• Select the appropriate surgical approach for an individual patient with oesophageal disease;

• Explain why healing of the oesophagus may differ from the rest of the intestinal tract;

• Describe surgical technique for oesophagotomy closure to minimize the risk of a postoperative complication.
  
  

Can you reach a clinical diagnosis for Woody and Daisy?

Click the links below to launch two fascinating case studies involving these patients. Have a pen and paper handy to take notes as you work your way through the information provided.