Endoscopic retrieval of sewing needle from oesophagus in a cat

Abstract

Endoscopy is a commonly performed non-invasive procedure in companion animals to remove any foreign objects struck at the upper gastrointestinal tract. The present report documents one such case and its successful management. A year-old Persian short-haired female cat was presented with a history of dyspepsia, vomiting, retching and gasping for the past 4 days. The detailed history revealed that the cat had consumed fish a week ago and three days later the symptoms were noticed. Thoracic radiography confirmed the presence of a fine radioactive structure that has perforated the cranial esophagus and trachea. The endoscopic evaluation revealed the tip of a sewing needle with thread in the esophageal lumen which was retrieved successfully. The cat showed an uneventful recovery with styptics, antibiotics and other supportive drugs for 3 days.