At St George Vets we have a range of flexible and rigid endoscopy equipment to provide the best care for your pet. Investigations of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract often require endoscopy to fully appreciate the situation.
Practice owner, Dr Shelton Smith, has undertaken post-graduate courses in endoscopy and has many years experience with endoscopic procedures.
Your vet will recommend endoscopy when indicated in the diagnosis or treatment of your pet.
Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that can be used to examine and treat various medical conditions in pets. The procedure involves inserting a long, thin, flexible tube called an endoscope into the pet's body through a natural opening, such as the mouth, nose, or rectum.
Endoscopy can be used to examine the digestive tract, respiratory tract, urinary tract, and other organs and tissues. The endoscope contains a small camera that allows the veterinarian to see inside the body and identify any abnormalities or conditions that may be present. The endoscope can also be used to take tissue samples for biopsy or to remove foreign objects or growths.
The endoscopy procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia to ensure that the pet is comfortable and still during the procedure. The pet's vital signs are closely monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their safety.
Some common uses of endoscopy in pets include:
- Examining the digestive tract for ulcers, tumors, and other abnormalities
- Removing foreign objects, such as swallowed toys or bones, from the digestive tract
- Examining the respiratory tract for tumors or infections
- Collecting samples from the lungs for biopsy or culturing
- Examining the urinary tract for stones or tumors
Overall, endoscopy is a safe and effective tool for diagnosing and treating various medical conditions in pets. If your pet needs to undergo an endoscopy procedure, your veterinarian can provide more information about the process and what to expect.