Procedure

This minimally invasive procedure is performed under anesthesia. The esophageal stricture is identified using an endoscope, and then measured using fluoroscopy. A balloon catheter is directed across the lesion and used to open up the stricture. A balloon-esophageal tube (BE-tube) is placed across the affected area to allow daily at-home dilation, and feeding (if necessary).

Indications to Take this Procedure

Esophageal stricture.

Patient Eligibility

Any dog or cat of any size can undergo this operation.

Cost

$5000-$6000. Pre-operative evaluation (imaging, labwork) and/or supportive care (fluids, pain medication) may be necessary, and will incur additional costs.
The BE-tube is removed after 3-4 weeks; this requires anesthesia and costs about $1000.

Length of Stay

48 hours post-procedure to address discomfort.

Potential Complications

Esophageal perforation (rare, but life threatening)
recurrence of the stricture (rare, unless the BE-tube becomes dislodged)
infection of the BE tube site (uncommon; manageable).

Anticipated Outcome

Generally good; patients treated earlier in the course of their disease tend to do better. We do not expect a return to full function; instead, the goal is to enable the patient to consistently eat and keep down a balanced diet.

Contact

If you have any questions, please contact the Texas A&M Interventional Radiology & Endoscopy Service via email at guidewire@cvm.tamu.edu or by phone at 979-845-2351.