Resolution of chronic regurgitation in an 8 month old Babydoll sheep by thoracoscopic treatment of a vascular ring anomaly

Abstract

ObjectiveThe objective was to describe the successful thoracoscopic treatment of esophageal entrapment resulting from a vascular ring anomaly (VRA) comprising a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) and left ligamentum arteriosum (LA) in a Babydoll sheep wether.Study designCase report.AnimalEight month old Babydoll sheep wether, 13 kg.MethodsThe patient presented with a weight half that of its sibling, persistent regurgitation following eating, and delayed growth noted from the age of approximately 2 months, coinciding with the introduction of solid feed into the diet. Plain thoracic radiographs were within normal limits but computed tomography angiography (CTA) confirmed multiple congenital vascular anomalies. The primary finding was esophageal and tracheal entrapment by a PRAA and left LA. Thoracoscopic transection of the LA was performed with a bipolar vessel sealing device with the aid of transesophageal endoscopy.ResultsImmediate improvement in attitude and absence of regurgitation were observed. The patient was discharged and subsequently reintroduced to grazing and long‐stem hay, which were previously not tolerated. By 6 months post discharge, the patient's weight was 36 kg, comparable to an age‐matched sibling and considered appropriate for the stage of growth.ConclusionThoracoscopic transection of the LA in sheep is a feasible treatment for esophageal compression resulting from a VRA. Surgical intervention resolved the clinical signs and allowed normal digestive rumination, restoring bidirectional esophageal function in a ruminant.