Surgical Management of Esophageal Fistula in Two Cows

A jersey bull and Holstein Friesian crossbred cow were presented with history of anorexia and chronic swelling at cervical region. On examination, it was hard firm and aspiration yielded no fluid. Animals were subjected for survey and contrast radiography confirmed esophageal perforation leading to leakage of cud in cervical region. Under local analgesia, left lateral cervical incision was performed to approach the esophagus. Fistula was identified and corrected. The swelling at cervical region was lanced and cud was removed. The wound healed well and animals recovered uneventfully.