Surgical management of oesophageal foreign body using a minimally invasive oesophagotomy technique (MIOT) in an Indian Flap-shell turtle (Lissemys punctata) - a case report

Abstract

Accidental ingestion of fish hooks is common among turtles. Several techniques are available for retrieving fish hooks, ranging from simple non-invasive techniques to more complicated and invasive surgical procedures. The purpose of this case report is to document the successful surgical retrieval of an oesophageal foreign body (fish hook) using a minimally invasive oesophagotomy technique (MIOT) in an Indian Flap-shell turtle (Lissemys punctata). The adult male Indian Flap-shell turtle (Lissemys punctata) presented with a nylon thread protruding from its mouth. The dorsoventral radiographs confirmed the presence of a foreign body in the caudal oesophagus, just outside the coelomic cavity. After the induction of general anaesthesia, a sterile artificial insemination (AI) sheath was passed intraorally through the fishing line until it reached the hook. The fish hook was then retrieved by making a 5 mm incision at the point where the tip of the AI sheath was felt. The incision in the oesophagus and skin was closed in a routine manner. The turtle was kept in secure captivity for 20 days, following which it was released to its natural habitat. The oesophagotomy technique used in this case reduces the size of the incision considerably, thereby decreasing the possibility of postoperative complications.