10y FS Shih Tzu that was originally presented for an esophageal foreign body (see endoscopic image below).
Subsequently, we utilized a 3-stage balloon that incrementally increases its diameter depending on the amount of fluid pressure deployed.
Benign esophageal strictures (BES) in dogs are most commonly secondary to esophagitis from either gastric acid reflux during anesthesia or an esophageal foreign body. They typically form 7-14 days after the event. The damage that occurs will not generally result in a stricture unless it is circumferential in nature.
The best preventative after a confirmed or suspected event has occurred is omeprazole (0.5-1mg/kg PO q12) +/- sucralfate (0.25-1g PO q8) for 10-14 days.
If a stricture does occur, balloon dilation (i.e. radial traction) vs. bougienage (longitudinal traction) are the treatments of choice. I prefer the balloon option, although studies indicate they are similar in safety and efficacy.
Sometimes one procedure is sufficient; however, many cases require 2 or more procedures since the stricture tends to reduce in size mildly after each procedure. If multiple procedures are performed, it is ideal to do them within 7-10 days of each other.
Hope ya’ll are well and staying busy. Please call me anytime if I can be of assistance.
– Kirk