Video Endoscopy

Endoscopy involves the use of a bundle of optical fibres, a light source and either an eyepiece or camera (video endoscopy) to facilitate visualisation of hollow internal body cavities. At VEVC we have one of the latest machines for video endoscopy, with the video feeding directly to a tablet, enabling both our clients and vets to observe and discuss what is being evaluated. It is easy for us to save and store video clips as well as images, which is key in documenting the progress of our patients.

Currently at the clinic we have a narrow 1.5m endoscope which can be used for:

• endoscopy in foals & ponies (including visualisation of the stomach) as well as full sized horses,
  
• evaluation of the entire upper respiratory tract (nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, gutteral pouches and trachea),
  

• visualisation of the sinuses in sinus and dental disease,

• evaluation of the urethra and bladder of mares, geldings and stallions,

• evaluation of the cervix and uterus of mares.
  

When to bring your horse in for an Endoscopic Examination:

Endoscopy is an essential tool in the evaluation of respiratory obstructions and disease, poor performance (including abnormal respiratory noise), gastric and urinary tract disease. Where abnormal tissue or fluid is identified, samples can be taken either through biopsy or fluid aspiration for further diagnostic testing.

Below is a list of symptoms for different body systems that may indicate that an endoscopic examination is required:

Respiratory symptoms:

• unilateral or bilateral nasal discharge (blood, mucus, pus)
• breathing difficulties & respiratory noise (at rest and during exercise)
• coughing

Gastro-intestinal symptoms:

• frequent colic
• abnormal eating pattern
• change in mood
  

Urinary tract & reproductive symptoms:

• abnormally frequent urination
• difficulties urinating (including colic whilst trying to urinate)
• urine scalding

"What to Expect" during an Endoscopic Examination:

A full clinical exam is required to be performed on your horse before we decide that this procedure is required. Horses will be examined in our padded crush, usually the patient requires a nose twitch to be put on and may also require sedation depending on the procedure.

If we are evaluating a horse for poor performance we prefer to perform the procedure without sedation. This allows us to properly evaluate the function of the upper airway and pharynx. If we are concerned about lower airway pathology, we may suggest that further diagnostic procedures are performed. This may involve aspiration and analysis of fluid within the lungs as well as an ultrasound examination of the chest. 

Please note at this time we are unable to perform gastroscopy in horses (except miniatures and foals) due to the length of our scope. If you feel your horse is displaying symptoms that may require a gastroscopic procedure to be performed, please do not hesitate to call us and discuss your concerns.