An endoscope is an important tool used to help with diagnosis and treatment of many gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases. An endoscope can be used to explore the upper GI tract including the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, as well as the lower intestinal tract or colon. Smaller scopes are available that can be used to examine the respiratory tract and obtain samples for cytology and culture. An endoscopic procedure can only be performed while an animal is under general anesthesia.
For gastrointestinal disease, endoscopy is most useful for retrieving small foreign objects that are still in the stomach, examining the upper GI tract for ulceration, inflammation or tumors, and obtaining biopsies to help diagnose problems associated with upper GI disease. The most common symptom of upper GI problems is vomiting. Lower intestinal disease manifested by chronic diarrhea may also benefit from colonoscopy with biopsies.
We are equipped to perform both upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopy. Please call if you have questions about this procedure.
