Endoscopy

Gastroscopy (Stomach and Upper Intestine):

• Investigate chronic vomiting or regurgitation
• Retrieve foreign objects from the stomach or oesophagus
• Obtain biopsies for diagnosing inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, or chronic gastritis
• Examine the oesophagus for strictures, masses, or inflammation
• Assess stomach lining for ulceration or tumours

Rhinoscopy (Nasal Passages):

• Investigate chronic nasal discharge or sneezing
• Identify foreign objects, masses, or fungal infections
• Obtain biopsies from nasal masses
• Visualise anatomical abnormalities affecting breathing

Bronchoscopy (Airways):

• Investigate chronic cough or breathing difficulty
• Obtain samples from airways for culture or cytology
• Visualise tracheal collapse or masses
• Retrieve foreign objects from airways (rare but possible)

Endoscopy requires general anaesthesia to keep pets still and comfortable while we navigate delicate instruments through internal structures. We insert the scope (a flexible tube with a camera and light at the tip) through natural openings, such as the mouth for gastroscopy and the nostrils for rhinoscopy.

High-resolution images display on monitors, allowing detailed visualisation of internal structures. We can direct instruments through the scope to obtain biopsies, retrieve objects, or collect samples without any external incisions.

Procedures typically take 20-60 minutes, depending on the nature of the investigation and whether we’re also collecting samples or retrieving objects.

Endoscopy has limitations. We cannot:

• Retrieve all types of foreign objects (some are too large, too firmly lodged, or in locations beyond scope reach)
• Visualise the entire gastrointestinal tract (we can access the stomach and upper small intestine, but not the mid-intestine or colon)
• Obtain full-thickness biopsies needed for some diagnoses
• Perform extensive surgical repairs through the scope

When endoscopy reveals conditions that require surgical intervention, or when objects cannot be retrieved endoscopically, we discuss traditional surgical options. Endoscopy often provides valuable information that guides surgical planning, even when it doesn’t completely resolve the problem.

Most pets wake comfortably within 30-60 minutes of procedure completion. They can typically go home the same day, once they are alert and steady on their feet. Throat soreness from gastroscopy usually resolves within 24 hours. Most pets return to normal eating habits by the next day.

We review endoscopic findings with you immediately, showing you images captured during the procedure. Biopsy results from samples sent to external laboratories typically return within 5-7 days, at which point we contact you to discuss findings and treatment recommendations.

Not every case benefits from an endoscopic approach. Intestinal foreign objects beyond the reach of the scope, perforated intestines, extensive masses, or conditions requiring full-thickness biopsies need traditional surgery.

We’ll recommend the most appropriate diagnostic approach for your pet’s specific situation. Sometimes, that may involve endoscopy, traditional surgery, or a combination of both, as needed in sequence. The goal is to achieve an accurate diagnosis using the least invasive approach that provides sufficient information.

For more information on Endoscopy, contact Vet HQ Darlinghurst or Double Bay.