Endoscopy
The word “endoscopy” denotes the use of fiber optic instruments to investigate and possibly biopsy certain areas inside the body. It is a “noninvasive” procedure which means no surgical incisions are required. For the patient, this means a short anesthetic period with a normally rapid recovery. All endoscopies in small animals require full, general anesthesia, and therefore may require pre-anesthetic evaluations such as blood tests, radiographs (x-rays), and/or ultrasound. Endoscopies are usually considered one of the lowest risk procedures in veterinary medicine.
All pets admitted for these procedures are first evaluated by a veterinarian who will examine your pet, medical history and any recent tests results, and the feasibility of an endoscopy for your pet’s medical concerns. We determine any ancillary tests that will be required. At that time, a medical treatment plan will be reviewed and any questions or concerns you may have can be discussed in detail. Pets are generally required to be admitted to the hospital for the day. Please fast your pet (no food; water OK) for at least 12 hours prior to the admission time.
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is examination of the Respiratory system. This includes the larynx (voice box), trachea (windpipe), and bronchial tree. This is an outpatient procedure that allows our internist to take samples and bacterial cultures of the airways. It may be preceded by chest radiographs (x-rays), and certain blood tests. Common reasons for bronchoscopy are chronic cough, suspected pneumonia, allergy, or cancer.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy allows the doctor to evaluate disease processes of the large intestine (colon), and rectum. This process is recommended for animals that have chronic diarrhea, are straining to defecate, and/or have blood in their stools. This procedure sometimes requires a 24 hour fast (water is okay).
Gastroscopy
Gastroscopy allows our internist to closely examine your pet’s esophagus, stomach, and the first portion of the small intestine. The health of these tissues can be assessed, biopsies harvested, and sometimes foreign objects can be retrieved. Your pet should be is fasted at least 12 hours prior to the procedure, and is usually released on the same day. Common reasons for gastroscopy are weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia.
Rhinoscopy
Rhinoscopy is the use of fiber optics to investigate the nasal cavity. It can be used for dogs and cats and is a short one day procedure. It is usually accompanied by skull and nasal radiographs, and biopsy. Chronic sneezing, snorting, “reverse sneezing,” chronic nasal discharge, or nasal bleeding would be indications for rhinoscopy.
