Resolution of dysphagia following cricopharyngeal myectomy in six young dogs

Six young dogs were presented with a history of dysphagia and nasal regurgi tation since birth. Following cranial nerve examination and assessment of s wallowing with fluoroscopy, a diagnosis of cricopharyngeal achalasia was ma de in each case. In four dogs, concomitant aspiration pneumonia was present . Sectioning and removal of part of the cricopharyngeal muscle resulted in immediate and continued resolution of all signs of dysphagia and nasal regu rgitation over follow-up periods of two to eight years. Postoperative compl ications were not seen in any case. In five of the six dogs, the cricophary ngeal muscle was approached laterally, a technique not previously described .