ESOPHAGEAL BONE FOREIGN BODY IN A FEMALE SPITZ DOG: CASE REPORT

Resumo

Introduction: Esophageal obstruction by foreign bodies in canines is a clinical emergency, especially when it occurs in the distal portion of the esophagus, due to the increased risk of perforation and mediastinitis. The aim of this study was to report a case of esophageal bone foreign body in a young female dog, highlighting the clinical findings, imaging diagnosis, surgical approach, and postoperative evolution. Case report: A 5-month-old female Spitz dog weighing 1.7 kg presented with regurgitation, gagging, and vomiting after ingesting a chicken bone fragment. During the physical examination, the patient presented with tachycardia, tachypnea, normal mucous membranes, and slight discomfort on abdominal palpation. Radiographic evaluation revealed a radiopaque structure compatible with a bone fragment in the caudal portion of the esophagus, between the ninth and tenth intercostal spaces. Because the bone fragment was firmly impacted in the caudal esophagus and was considered unsuitable for safe endoscopic removal due to its size and irregular shape, a left intercostal thoracotomy followed by esophagotomy was performed. Discussion: Clinical signs combined with clear radiographic findings enabled rapid therapeutic decision-making. Endoscopy is the first-line treatment for most esophageal foreign bodies. However, esophagotomy remains an effective and justified alternative when severe impaction precludes safe endoscopic removal. Conclusion: Immediate surgical intervention combined with appropriate anesthetic and postoperative management was essential for a favorable outcome.