Endoscopy & Gastroscopy

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Persistent coughs, nasal discharge, respiratory noise, loss of poor performance, are all common issues we are asked to investigate.

 

An essential part of investigation of airway disease is the ability to actually look into the respiratory tract. Endoscopy can bring more to the table than purely allowing visualization. Tissue and fluid samples can be obtained via the biopsy channel of the endoscope and foreign bodies can be grasped and retrieved/removed using the endoscope.

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Gastroscopy is commonly carried out to diagnose stomach problems such as gastric ulcers or duodenal ulcers. Most horses do not show outward signs of EGUS, and some of the outward signs could be attributable to other conditions. Gastroscopy is the only way to get a definitive diagnosis of ulcers, and it also allows the vet to see the severity and extent of any ulceration. This in turn guides treatment type and length.

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We have mobile light sources for use out on the road, so our only requirements for carrying out an endoscopic examination are adequate restraint (sedation isn’t always needed) and a sheltered, dry location.

Our video endoscopic examinations are usually carried out in our clinic.