Comprehensive Approach to Oesophageal Obstruction in an Alpaca: From Imaging to Surgery

Abstract

A 7-year-old alpaca was presented to Multidisciplinary Veterinary Clinic Bulgaria with a history of progressive weight loss, regurgitation, ptyalism, and anorexia. Clinical examination raised suspicion of an oesophageal disorder. Computed tomography (CT) of the cervical region revealed a suspected intraluminal obstruction in the proximal oesophagus. Subsequent gastroscopic examination confirmed the presence of a compact bolus of hay occluding the oesophageal lumen. Endoscopic attempts at removal were unsuccessful due to the density and size of the obstruction. Surgical intervention via a cervical oesophagotomy was performed to extract the impacted material. The procedure was completed without complications, and the patient recovered uneventfully with supportive postoperative care. This case highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of oesophageal obstruction in South American camelids, emphasizing the importance of a multimodal approach that includes advanced imaging, endoscopy, and surgery for effective case resolution.