Endoscopy

Veterinary Endoscopy is an extremely useful procedure which aids in the diagnosis and treatment of problems occurring in the Upper and Lower Gastrointestinal (GI) Tracts. With an endoscope, we can perform a more complete examination of the GI Tract, including the esophagus, stomach, and some areas of the intestines. This equipment also allows us to perform a colonoscopy, as indicated.

The endoscope allows the veterinarian to visualize areas that would normally not be accessible without invasive surgery. The scope is equipped with a lighted camera and pictures are transferred to a monitor to be better evaluated by the veterinarian. Using the scope, a doctor can diagnose gastrointestinal disorders, cancerous growths, polyps and much more.

The endoscope is also useful in obtaining samples of potentially infected or cancerous material. When performing a biopsy under such conditions, the endoscope serves as the "eye" of the veterinarian, allowing them to obtain the best possible samples for evaluation. This procedure is extremely helpful in diagnosing malignancies in the GI tract as well as GI disorders, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Another function of the endoscope is to aid the veterinarian in the removal of foreign bodies. A foreign body is anything the "does not belong" in the animal's GI tract. Often, animals swallow things that they should not, including toys, buttons, and in one instance, a sewing needle! Using the endoscope as a guide, the veterinarian may be able to remove such objects using a special instrument, rather than resorting to a major surgery.