How does it work?

At Durango Animal Hospital, we can perform endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures on your pet if needed. Endoscopy uses a long, flexible tube with a video camera to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract. With this equipment, we can take biopsies and/or remove foreign objects from the stomach or intestinal tract. Laparoscopy also uses a camera. However, it is mounted on a rigid instrument that allows procedures to be performed inside the body less invasively than surgery.

Endoscopic techniques can be used to facilitate a wide variety of veterinary treatments. Bronchoscopy is the technique used to examine the respiratory tract, remove foreign objects, and detect and sample lesions or tumors. Cystoscopy allows treatment of the bladder, while gastrointestinal endoscopy addresses issues in the stomach and intestines. Laparoscopy allows the vet to view abdominal organs. Otoscopy allows examination of the ear canal and middle ear (and is one of the most common veterinary medicine procedures). Rhinoscopy is a technique for exploring and treating the nose and throat. Vaginoscopy is used to treat vaginal issues and enhance animal husbandry techniques. This equipment can also be used to aid in less invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic spays and gastropexy (attaching the stomach to the belly wall to prevent rotation of the stomach).