Surgical management of cricopharyngeal achalasia in dogs results in low mortality but moderate incidence of recurrence or persistent clinical signs

Objective: To describe diagnostic and surgical management of cricopharyngeal achalasia (CA) in dogs and to identify patient or management factors that may contribute to postoperative outcomes. Methods: Signalment, diagnostic imaging findings, surgical information, complications, and outcomes were retrospectively obtained. Fisher exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were performed to identify predictors of unsatisfactory outcomes using sex, breed, age, videofluoroscopic swallow study findings, laterality of surgery, and muscles resected as variables. Results: 26 dogs surgically managed for CA from 2009 through 2025 were included. The most common breeds were Poodle mixes (n = 12) and Golden Retrievers (8). Ventral bilateral surgery resulted in shorter operative times than through 2 lateral incisions. Postoperative complication and mortality rates were 23% and 11.5%, respectively. Aspiration pneumonia was the most common postoperative complication. Unsatisfactory outcomes were reported in 42.3%. Recurrence of clinical signs after initial resolution was noted in 34.6%, and revision surgery was performed in 26.9%. Median time to recurrence was 84 days (range, 7 to 1,320 days). No significant association was identified for age, sex, breed, laterality, videofluoroscopic swallow study findings, or muscles resected. Conclusions: Surgical management of CA resulted in low mortality, moderate incidence of recurrence and revision surgery, and residual symptoms requiring long-term conservative management. Clinical Relevance: Surgery is a safe option for management of CA, but owners should be informed of the risks of recurrence and residual clinical signs that may require long-term dietary modifications. Animals with CA are at risk of aspiration pneumonia both pre- and postoperatively and should be monitored accordingly.