FLEXIBLE ENDOSCOPY

Flexible endoscopy is a medical procedure where an experience veterianian uses a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera and light (endoscope) to visualize and remove objects; or, obtain tissue samples for biopsy. It allows visualization of organs and other structures without the need for major surgery. Endoscopy can be used for both diagnosis, biopsy and treatment of various conditions such as gastric foreign body removal.

FOREIGN BODY REMOVAL

In veterinary medicine, foreign body removal by endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to retrieve objects lodged in a pet's digestive or respiratory tract. This technique is often the preferred method for esophageal and gastric foreign bodies in dogs and cats. Factors which influence the ability to remove foreign objects by endoscopy include the size & shape of the object, its' location and how long it has been lodged.

Examples of foreign bodies may include: socks, toys, jewellery, leashes, money, animal bones.

BIOPSY

An endoscopic biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure where a veterinarian uses an endoscope to examine internal organs and collect tissue samples (biopsies) for diagnosis. This procedure allows for visualization to obtain targeted biopsies; and, offers the potential for early detection, identification and treatment planning.

Examples of tissue biopsies include samples obtained from the stomach, small and large bowel and nasal passages using endoscopic procedures.