Gastroscopy is a diagnostic procedure in which a camera lets us examine the digestive tract of our dog and cat patients. It is used to detect various gastrointestinal conditions such as inflammation, ulcers, tumours, and foreign bodies in the stomach or intestines. The most common indications for gastroscopy are chronic vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, anaemia, and the swallowing of foreign bodies such as parts of toys or whole toys, household textiles, bones and other indigestible materials.
During the examination, the animals are anaesthetised with inhalation anaesthesia and the oesophagus, stomach and intestines are examined with a flexible endoscope. The endoscope carries a camera that streams a live image of the digestive tract to a monitor. Gastroscopy is a minimally invasive and highly effective diagnostic method. If you suspect your pet has a gastrointestinal problem, it is important to consult a veterinarian, who will judge whether gastroscopy is the appropriate diagnostic method for the case.
For more information and questions about gastroscopy, you can contact City Veterinary Clinic on 0878 455 323.
