Curative balloon dilation of a severe esophageal stricture in a pig

A 3-month-old, Yorkshire cross barrow was evaluated for diarrhoea and vomiting, which were observed intermittently during and after consumption of feed and water. Weight loss, despite good appetite, was also reported. Abdominal radiographs demonstrated stomach distention and gas within the duodenal lumen. Thickening of the pyloric antrum and proximal duodenum were noticed using abdominal ultrasonography. Esophageal endoscopy demonstrated severe reduction of the aborad esophageal lumen, which precluded endoscopic evaluation of the stomach. A severe esophageal stricture was diagnosed. Medical management using omeprazole and dietary changes did not alleviate the clinical signs. The esophageal stricture was successfully resolved by balloon dilation performed under general anaesthesia using fluoroscopy. The pig started to gain weight, developed normally, and was successfully harvested 3 months later. The balloon dilation was curative and is presented as an option for cases of severe porcine gastric ulceration and esophageal stricture that are refractory to nutritional and medical management.