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Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a visual examination of the gastrointestinal tract using a lighted, flexible fiber optic scope. Gastroscopy is when the instrument is inserted through the mouth and passed into the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the intestine (duodenum). Colonscopy is the procedure whereby the scope is passed through the anus to examine the rectum and colon. Bronchoscopy is when the scope is passed down the trachea (windpipe) into the bronchi of the lungs. Rhinoscopy is the scoping of the nasal passage.

Endoscopy is a relatively noninvasive way to diagnose tumors, strictures, ulcers, and to take tissue samples. Some foreign bodies (such as fish hooks) can be removed with endoscopy, saving the pet a major abdominal surgery. Endoscopy can be performed on both dogs and cats, under general anesthesia. A partial list of indications for endoscopy includes:

• Gastroscopy: regurgitation, abnormal swallowing, increased salivation, nausea, vomiting, bloody stool, inappetence.
• Colonscopy: diarrhea, weight loss, fecal mucus, straining to defecate.
• Bronchoscopy: coughing, trachea collapse, abnormal breathing pattern, foreign body.
• Rhinoscopy: nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, chronic sneezing, facial distortion.