Endoscope with Horses

In addition to ultrasound and x-ray, CEVS has another tool in which to see inside your horse's body. Depending upon the circumstances, a small flexible tube called an endoscope is used to detect problems.

Endoscopy uses a video camera to image the horse's airways and gastrointestinal systems. The endoscope allows us to identify problems, take diagnostic samples and bacterial cultures. This procedure is essential in diagnosing the cause of chronic respiratory diseases and infections. All forms of endoscopy are minimally invasive. Generally, only light sedation is needed for comfort during the procedure. A meter-long, flexible endoscope reaches your horse's stomach which is typically inserted through a natural body opening

The information acquired provides a definitive diagnosis, so appropriate action can be taken. Video-endoscopy is most often used to diagnose respiratory and gastric diseases.