CLINICAL-EVALUATION OF TUBE ESOPHAGOSTOMY IN SMALL ANIMALS

An alternative technique for placement of tube esophagostomy in small animals is described. Tube esophagostomy was placed in 13 dogs and nin e cats. The mean duration of tube placement was 23 days (range, one to 48 days). No significant complications related to the tube were noted . In each case, tube esophagostomy was tolerated and time to healing o f the esophagostomy site following tube removal was less than two week s. Tube esophagostomy is suitable for use in a nutritionally compromis ed small animal with a functional esophagus and gastrointestinal tract .