Pharyngeal Trauma in Animals

Pharyngeal trauma in ruminants is not uncommon and is often secondary to iatrogenic causes, such as incorrect passage of balling guns or attempts to pass probangs (surgical instruments used to retrieve foreign bodies, relieve obstructions, or administer medications) orally. Affected cattle develop severe swelling of the head and proximal neck secondary to diffuse cellulitis caused by penetration of the pharyngeal mucosa. Feed frequently becomes impacted in these areas and can lead to acute dyspnea.

Management of pharyngeal trauma in ruminants includes the placement of a temporary rumen fistula to provide extraoral supplemental nutrition while the pharyngeal defect heals. Treatment includes administration of systemic antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory agents, and intravenous fluids if dehydrated. Affected animals might also require surgical drainage of abscessation secondary to accumulation of feed and foreign material.

In small animals, oropharyngeal foreign bodies are quite common in dogs, less so in cats. However, cats are prone to ingestion of linear foreign bodies, which can become entangled with the tongue and can be identified with a careful oral examination under sedation or general anesthesia. Penetrating foreign bodies include pins, needles, plant material (foxtails), and pieces of stick or bone fragments.

Small animals suspected to have oropharyngeal foreign bodies can be evaluated with an oral examination while sedated or anesthetized and with radiographic or ultrasonographic examination to identify all foreign material present. Once identified, pharyngeal foreign bodies can be removed directly via the oral cavity, endoscopically, or surgically as indicated.