Endoscopy is a surgery technique that is less invasive and that can help our veterinarians determine a diagnosis. It is used to visualize tissues in the gastrointestinal or the respiratory tract. An endoscope has the shape of a flexible tube device with a light and camera on the end that fits into your pet’s mouth or other body opening.
What is endoscopy for?
Endoscopy is a technique that makes it easier for the veterinarian to take biopsies and detect early stage cancers like lymphoma or gastrointestinal disorders. The advantage of endoscope is that although is it done under general anesthesia, there is not an actual surgery happening that usually implies to cut tissues, meaning less pain for your pet.
What signs should I look for?
Your pet might benefit from an endoscopy if you see the following symptoms:
- Weight loss
- Unusual lumps
- Excessive vomiting/diarrhea
What to expect if you pets take an endoscopy?
This surgery requires anesthesia, meaning it usually involves blood workup. This is only to make sure that your pet’s organs are able to take the anesthetic correctly. During the procedure, we always make sure to monitor your pet’s temperature and pulse before giving him the anesthesia and then proceed to insert the endoscope. Most veterinarians will use this procedure to remove foreign objects like a sock or a string. Using this method could save your pet’s life.
When the procedure is over, your pet will rest until the anesthesia wears off and you will be able to take him home the same day. Recovery is usually rapid and there no day rest needed after the surgery, which would defer from traditional surgeries.
What is the difference between endoscopy and laparoscopy?
Similar to endoscopy laparoscopy is the use a small rigid visualizing camera that can be inserted into the abdominal or thoracic cavity to investigate, take tissue samples or even perform surgeries. Laparoscopic techniques are for non-invasive evaluation of several organs.
