Resolution of megaesophagus after correction of a paraesophageal hernia

Case summaryA 6-year-old female Siamese cat presented with an 8-week history of vomiting and progressive hyporexia. On presentation, the cat was found to have a hypochloremic alkalosis. Imaging demonstrated hiatal hernia and megaesophagus. Exploratory laparotomy demonstrated a paraesophageal hiatal hernia. The hernia was reduced, phrenoplasty and esophagopexy were performed, and a gastrotomy tube was placed. Treatment of the hernia led to resolution of the megaesophagus.Relevance and novel informationMegaesophagus can occur secondarily to paraesophageal hernia in the cat. In this case, correction of the paraesophageal hernia led to complete resolution of the esophageal dilation and all associated clinical signs.

Automated summary

Megaesophagus in cats can be caused by paraesophageal hernia. In this case, correcting the paraesophageal hernia resulted in complete resolution of esophageal dilation and all associated clinical signs.