Interconnected multiple gastroesophageal fish hook retrievals by endoscopic or surgical interventions in dogs: 13 cases (2010-2017)

The aim of this study was to evaluate endoscopic and/or surgical removal of interconnected, multiple fish hooks that lodge in gastroesophageal region in dogs. Medical records were obtained and clinical, radiographic and endoscopic evaluations were performed for 13 dogs with gastroesophageal multiple fish hooks. Endoscopic, surgical and endoscopy assisted surgical removal was performed depending on penetration degree of the hooks. Distribution of the hooks were 9 (13.2%) in the cranial esophagus, 40 (58.8%) in the cervical esophagus, 17 (25%) in the thoracic esophagus and 2 (3%) in the stomach. Retrieval of the hooks was performed endoscopically in 11 cases, surgically in one case and combined in one case. There were no complicated mucosal erosions or lacerations associated with removal of the hooks. It is very important to remove fish hooks as soon as possible to reduce complication rates and the dog owners should be warned to beware of fishing areas.