Endoscopy

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is a wonderful diagnostic tool that allows exploration and biopsies of areas without invasive surgery. Endoscopy utilizes specialized video cameras to evaluate areas within the body. In most instances, endoscopy is performed for diagnostic purposes allowing visualization and sampling of abnormalities. However, endoscopy can also be used for therapeutic purposes as well, termed interventional endoscopy.

What can be accomplished with endoscopy?

• Close-up visualization of an area of interest in a non-invasive manner
• Biopsy area of interest for histopathology, cytology, and/or cultures
• Evaluation/Removal of foreign object(s)
• Feeding tube placement
• Perform diagnostic tests and therapeutic procedures in any part of the body that can be accessed endoscopically (Interventional Endoscopy), often performed in conjunction with some other imaging modality (fluoroscopy, ultrasound). Ex: urethral stenting, balloon dilatation for nasopharyngeal stenosis and esophageal strictures; tracheal stenting, lithotripsy for renal, ureteral or cystic calculi

What types of endoscopic procedures can be done?

At Summerfields Animal Hospital, we have highly trained veterinarians, staff and equipment to perform the following procedures.

• Respiratory tract endoscopy (rhinoscopy, tracheoscopy, bronchoscopy)
• Upper GI tract endoscopy (esophagoscopy, gastroscopy, duodenoscopy)
• Lower GI tract endoscopy (colonoscopy, ileoscopy)
• Urinary and genital tract endoscopy (cystoscopy, urethroscopy, vaginoscopy)
• Abdominal endoscopy (laparoscopy)

What is Interventional Endoscopy?

Interventional Endoscopy (IE) involves the use of endoscopic equipment, sometimes combined with other imaging modalities such as Laparoscopy and/or ultrasound, to perform therapeutic procedures in virtually any part of the body accessed endoscopically. These procedures may take the place of more invasive surgical techniques or offer novel therapies. Currently we offer the following procedures:

• Balloon dilation of strictures
• Foreign body retrieval
• Bladder polyp removal or stone retrieval (size dependent)
• Feeding tube placement

How can I have an Endoscopic procedure performed on my pet?

If your veterinarian recommends or you think your pet may benefit from an endoscopic procedure, you may call (817)485-8511 to schedule an appointment for an evaluation with one of our veterinary clinicians. During this evaluation, one of our clinicians will review your pet’s history, perform a physical examination, and determine if an endoscopic procedure is indicated. Further diagnostic tests or therapies may be recommended prior to pursuing endoscopy. Endoscopic procedures are usually performed under general anesthesia the day following evaluation with most patients going home the same day as the procedure.