Category:Oesophagus - Pathology

The oesophagus is the part of alimentary tract that tends to go wrong least often. Failure of oesophageal function results in obstruction and in failure of ingesta to pass to the stomach. In the bovine there may also be failure of eructation and tympany may develop.

Defence Mechanisms

The oesophagus has no serosa and is covered by the fibrous tissue of the neck and mediastinum, from which it derives its blood supply. Consequently, infection spreads easily and healing is more difficult. Oesophageal disease is therefore difficult to treat and is very serious.