Minimally Invasive Endoscopy
At Intercity Animal Emergency Clinic, we understand how much your pet means to you. That’s why we offer a wide range of advanced diagnostic tools, including endoscopy, to ensure your furry friend receives the most accurate diagnosis and treatment possible.
What is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows our veterinarians to visualize the internal organs of your pet using a thin, flexible instrument called an endoscope. This endoscope is equipped with a camera and light source, transmitting real-time images of the internal structures onto a monitor. Endoscopy offers a safe and effective way to examine areas that would otherwise be inaccessible without surgery.
Benefits of Endoscopy for Pets
Endoscopy offers several advantages over traditional diagnostic methods like exploratory surgery. These include:
Minimally Invasive
Endoscopy avoids large incisions, resulting in less pain and discomfort for your pet.
Faster Recovery
Due to the minimal invasiveness, recovery times are significantly shorter compared to surgery.
Improved Visualization
Endoscopes provide a magnified view of the internal organs, allowing for a more detailed examination and a more accurate diagnosis.
Biopsy Collection
During an endoscopy, our veterinarians can collect tissue samples for further analysis, aiding in definitive diagnoses.
Therapeutic Procedures
In some cases, endoscopy can be used for therapeutic purposes as well. For example, foreign objects can be removed, or bleeding vessels can be cauterized.
Types of Endoscopy Offered at Intercity Animal Emergency Clinic
We offer a variety of endoscopic procedures to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in dogs and cats. Some of the most common types include:
Gastroscopy
Examination of the stomach for ulcers, foreign objects, or tumors.
Colonoscopy
Examination of the colon for polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or tumors.
Rhinoscopy
Examination of the nasal cavity and sinuses for infections, foreign objects, or tumors.
Otoscopy
Examination of the ear canal for infections, foreign objects, or tumors.
Bronchoscopy
Examination of the airways for foreign objects, infections, or tumors.
Cystoscopy
Examination of the urinary bladder for bladder stones, infections, or tumors.
When is Endoscopy Recommended for My Pet?
Vomiting or regurgitation
Diarrhea or constipation
Difficulty breathing
Unexplained weight loss
Blood in the stool or vomit
Chronic ear infections
Chronic nasal & discharge
Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine
What to Expect During an Endoscopic Procedure
Before the procedure, your pet will undergo a thorough physical examination and pre-anesthetic bloodwork. During the endoscopy, your pet will be under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort and minimize any discomfort. The veterinarian will then carefully insert the endoscope into the appropriate opening of the body. Once inside, the veterinarian will examine the internal structures and may collect tissue samples if necessary. The entire procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.
Aftercare for Endoscopy
Following the procedure, your pet will be monitored closely in our recovery area until they are fully awake and stable. Once they are comfortable, you will be able to take them home with specific post-operative instructions. Recovery time is typically quick, and most pets can resume their normal activities within 24-48 hours.
Committed to Advanced Diagnostics for Your Pet
At Intercity Animal Emergency Clinic, we are committed to providing your pet with the highest quality veterinary care. Endoscopy is a valuable tool that allows us to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in a minimally invasive way. If you have any questions about endoscopy or if you think your pet may benefit from this procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of experienced veterinarians. We are here to help your pet live a long and healthy life.
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