Patient
Cry Baby, 4-month-old male bull terrier.

Presenting Complaint
Persistent regurgitation of food.  A stricture in te esophagus was seen with radiographs taken following a barium swallow.  This stricture was located within the chest and just in front of the heart.  This is typical of a persistent right aortic arch, a congenital heart defect.  Resection of the fibrous persistent ligament (PRAA) and balloon stretching of the region of the esophagus may result in normal ability to swallow food.

Endoscopic Technique
Thoracoscopic dissection and cutting of the ligament combined with flexible endoscopy and balloon dilation of the narrow esophagus.

Benefits of using endoscopy
Thoracoscopy avoided a major chest surgery in a small and young patient.  Only 4 small incisions were required.  The ability to see using the scope and camera are superior to traditional surgery.

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