Endoscopy

Using a flexible tube with an attached video camera, this procedure allows us direct visualization into an organ like the stomach or intestine. (Rhinoscopy is similar but uses a rigid scope to look inside respiratory organs such as the nose or throat.) Endoscopy is an excellent diagnostic tools that provides us with a wealth of information as well as facilitating biopsies of many internal organs.

Most endoscopic procedures are minimally invasive and your pet can usually go home the same day.

The endoscope can also be employed to retrieve foreign objects from the stomach, throat or esophagus, again avoiding major surgery.

Rhinoscopy

Rhinoscopy is the exploration of the nasal passages and the back of the throat with a very small rigid endoscope. The scope used for this procedure is 1-2mm in diameter and 18 inches long. Using this instrument allows the veterinarian to explore the entire nasal passage of all dogs and most cats.

The nasal cavity contains multiple small passages which are often beds to infection and tumors. Through rhinoscopy, the veterinarian can take accurate biopsies, remove foreign objects, control bleeding from ruptured vessels, and perform many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.