Cervical esophagostomy using indwelling catheter for analysis of gastric physiology in dogs

PURPOSE: To describe the technique of cervical esophagostomy with indwelling catheter for the collection of secretions and study of gastric emptying. METHODS: Esophagostomy was performed in 14 dogs, and a tube was introduced into the animals' stomachs and maintained pervious for eight weeks. The technique consisted of opening the left lateral surface of the neck for insertion of the tube, with the aid of a Mixter forceps, and the subsequent subcutaneous tunneling and exteriorization of the catheter on the dorsum of the animals. RESULTS: Successful use of the tube and its total permeability were observed in 13 animals (92.8%). In one animal, the tube was obstructed by hair, and it was replaced. Formation of a small abscess occurred in 3 animals (21.4%), followed by spontaneous drainage. No accidents occurred, and the bleeding was minimal. No deaths were registered. CONCLUSION: The described technique can be used in similar researches, as well as for animal feeding in investigations of the upper digestive tract, after esophageal resection and in major neck surgeries