Esophageal anastomosis in two foals.

This study involves two young horses (foals) on which esophageal anastomosis, a surgical procedure reconnecting the esophagus after removal of a blocked (stricture) section, was performed. Post-surgery, the foals were managed with nasogastric feeding and antibiotic therapy, leading to their recovery and maturation into performance horses.

Research Objectives

• This research aimed to explore the feasibility and success rates of an esophageal anastomosis surgical intervention in foals suffering from midcervical stricture, a condition where a part of the esophagus narrows down, causing difficulties in swallowing.

Methods

• The research was conducted on two foals. A surgical procedure known as esophageal anastomosis was performed on these foals after resecting (removing) the stricture located at the midcervical region of the esophagus. This surgical approach involved reconnecting the esophagus after the removal of the stricture.
• Following the surgery, the foals were managed with nasogastric tube alimentation, a process that involved feeding nutrition directly to the stomach via a tube inserted through the nose.
• The foals also received antibiotic therapy to prevent any infections post-surgery.

Findings

• The findings of the study showed that the two foals recovered from the surgery and the condition of the esophagus. They matured into horses that could perform well, showing that the surgical intervention and post-operative care regimen was successful.
• The success in the surgical management of strictured esophagus in these cases demonstrated the possible effective use of esophageal anastomosis in managing such conditions in foals.

Conclusion

• The research concluded that esophageal anastomosis, combined with post-surgery management involving nasogastric tube alimentation and antibiotic therapy, could be an effective approach to managing cases of midcervical esophageal stricture in foals.
• The cases showed evidence of recovery and the foals’ successful transition to active performing horses, suggesting the effectiveness of this surgical regimen.