Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a procedure which allows a doctor to directly visualize the interior of a hollow organ or cavity of the body using a small camera.

Unlike most other medical imaging devices, endoscopes are inserted directly into the organ. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Endoscopy can be used to evaluate the oropharynx, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Biopsies can be obtained as needed during these procedures.

Specific conditions diagnosed and treated endoscopically include gastric and duodenal foreign bodies, esophageal strictures, esophagitis, inflammatory bowel disease, gastric ulcers, gastritis, and neoplasia, among others. Early diagnosis and intervention following endoscopy and endoscopic biopsies allows for accurate diagnosis and treatment, faster recovery, and longer survival time.

Balloon dilation (bouginage) of esophageal stricture.

Patient #2: 11 year old male, neutered Domestic Shorthair presented for chronic vomiting and weight loss — normal stomach.

Patient #2: Endoscopy of duodenum — duodenal mass (lymphosarcoma).