Esophageal swallow study on a puppy

Swallow studies are performed on pets with possible esophageal issues. Canned dog food is mixed with barium so it can be seen on a video x-ray fluoroscope. As the pet swallows the food, we can see if it travels down the esophagus to the stomach and is held there or if it moves back up. Normally the esophageal sphincter holds the food in the stomach.

This pet has hypomotile esophagus with gastric reflux. The esophagus has a larger than normal diameter and during this swallow study, she reflex regurgitated food twice. There is normal laryngeal function and normal swallowing. We would recommend feeding from an elevated position and/or use of a Bailey Chair.

She also has moderate to severe hypoplastic trachea. We found that her trachea (windpipe) is 1/3 the diameter it should be, causing her to cough and regurgitate. This is a common congenital condition of her breed.

This combination of conditions predisposes her to pneumonia, respiratory distress, lack of stamina, and low tolerance for heat.