Endoscopy

Understanding Veterinary Endoscopy 

Endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows our veterinary team to examine the interior of your pet’s organs and body cavities. Using a specialized instrument called an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera attached—we can visualize internal structures with remarkable clarity while minimizing discomfort and recovery time for your pet. 

Benefits of Endoscopic Procedures  

Highly Detailed Visualization 
Advanced camera technology provides our veterinarians with clear, magnified images of internal structures for precise diagnosis. 

Sample Collection Capability 
When necessary, we can collect tissue samples (biopsies) or remove small foreign objects during the endoscopic examination. 

Common Applications of Veterinary Endoscopy 

Our endoscopic services include: 

Gastrointestinal Endoscopy 

Examination of the esophagus, stomach, and portions of the intestinal tract to diagnose: 

• Chronic vomiting or diarrhea 
• Inflammatory bowel disease 
• Gastrointestinal tumors 
• Foreign body detection and removal 
• Unexplained weight loss 

Respiratory Endoscopy 

Visualization of the nasal passages, larynx, trachea, and bronchi to investigate: 

• Chronic coughing or sneezing 
• Nasal discharge or breathing difficulties 
• Airway obstructions or abnormalities 
• Suspected respiratory infections 

Urinary Tract Endoscopy 

Examination of the bladder and urethra to diagnose: 

• Recurrent urinary tract infections 
• Bladder stones or masses 
• Urinary incontinence 
• Blood in urine 

Otoscopy 

Detailed evaluation of the ear canal for: 

• Chronic ear infections 
• Ear polyps or tumors 
• Foreign body removal 
• Eardrum assessment 

The Endoscopy Procedure 

Before the Procedure 

Your pet will undergo a comprehensive pre-procedure evaluation, including: 

• Physical examination 
• Blood work to ensure anesthesia safety 
• Discussion of your pet’s symptoms and medical history 
• Fasting instructions to prepare for the procedure 

During Endoscopy 

• Your pet will be placed under general anesthesia for comfort and safety 
• Our veterinary team will monitor vital signs throughout the procedure 
• The endoscope is carefully guided into the area of interest 
• Images and video may be recorded for detailed assessment 
• Biopsies or foreign object removal may be performed as needed 

After the Procedure 

• Most pets recover from anesthesia within a few hours 
• Detailed findings and recommendations will be discussed with you 
• A comprehensive treatment plan will be developed based on diagnostic results 
• Most pets can return home the same day with minimal restrictions 

When Is Endoscopy Recommended? 

Our veterinarians may recommend endoscopy when: 

• Your pet has persistent symptoms that haven’t been diagnosed through other methods 
• Less invasive diagnostic tests have yielded inconclusive results 
• Foreign body removal may be possible without surgery 
• Direct visualization is needed to assess internal structures 
• Tissue samples are required for definitive diagnosis 

Schedule a Consultation 

If your pet is experiencing symptoms that may benefit from endoscopic evaluation, contact us at (619) 421-1698 to schedule a consultation. Our veterinary team will assess your pet’s condition and determine if endoscopy is the appropriate next step in their diagnostic plan. oscopy to provide the highest standard of care while minimizing stress and discomfort for your beloved companion.