In the field of veterinary medicine, endoscopy is used to examine the internal organs. Therefore, the process negates the need to resort to exploratory surgery. An endoscopy is performed using a flexible or rigid fiberoptic tool.
How Flexible Endoscopes Are Used
Flexible endoscopes are used for examinations, such as the following:
• Endoscopy–an examination of the stomach, esophagus, and upper intestinal section.
• Bronchoscopy–an examination of the lower part of the airways.
• Colonoscopy–an examination of the ascending colon, transverse colon, large bowel, cecum, and rectum.
How a Rigid Endoscope Is Used
When a rigid endoscope is used in pet care in Bethlehem, it is designed to support the following procedures:
• Arthroscopy–an examination of the joints and tissues, not seen on x-rays.
• Cystoscopy–an examination of the vagina, urethra, bladder, and associated openings.
• Proctoscopy–an examination of the rectum and large bowel.
• Laparoscopy–an examination of the abdominal cavity. In veterinary medicine, the procedure is performed to obtain biopsy samples for liver or kidney diagnoses.
• Rhinoscopy–an examination of the nasopharynx area and nasal cavity.
• Thoracoscopy–an examination of the chest cavity–a procedure not often performed by veterinarians.
When an Endoscopy Is Frequently Performed
With respect to pet care, an endoscopy is frequently performed to locate a foreign body inside the esophagus. It is also used to diagnose stomach cancer or an ulcer. If a dog is vomiting or has blood in its stool, an endoscope exam is often ordered to see if cancer or an ulcer is the cause of the symptoms.
Again, the main benefit of using endoscopy over other evaluative techniques is that it is nonsurgical. This method permits the veterinarian to obtain biopsies with greater ease and remove foreign bodies. That is why pet care professionals advocate this procedure for both dogs and cats.
Where to Learn More about Innovative Pet Health Services
If you would like to learn more about endoscopy or other innovative pet health services, contact a facility, such as Maple Hills Veterinary Hospital. Contact the hospital today to obtain a health check for your dog or cat.
