One of the most challenging aspects of pet ownership is recognizing that your companion is unwell without knowing the exact cause. Pets can exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, coughing, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained discomfort; however, these signs alone may not provide sufficient information for a precise diagnosis. Thankfully, veterinary Medicine has evolved, providing tools like rigid endoscopy that allow vets to examine the internal structures of your pet in a minimally invasive way. At Apex Animal Hospital in Langley, BC, we offer rigid endoscopy services to accurately and efficiently diagnose conditions.
Rigid endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure where a veterinarian uses a small, rigid tube fitted with a camera and light source to inspect your pet’s internal organs. Unlike flexible endoscopes, rigid endoscopes provide a stable view of specific areas, making them ideal for examining the upper airways, ears, bladder, or other organs that require precision.
During a rigid endoscopy, the veterinarian can detect abnormalities such as blockages, growths, inflammation, or foreign objects. This process helps identify the root cause of your pet’s symptoms, allowing for more precise treatment planning.
Rigid endoscopy offers several benefits compared to traditional diagnostic techniques:
These advantages often lead veterinarians to prefer rigid endoscopy for diagnosing issues in pets when they want less invasive options.
To ensure the procedure proceeds smoothly, pets may need to fast for 12 to 18 hours before the endoscopy. It helps the doctor clear the stomach and intestines for a better visual inspection. These advantages often lead veterinarians to prefer rigid endoscopy for diagnosing issues in pets when they want less invasive options.
The veterinarian will administer anesthesia to your pet during a rigid endoscopy to keep them calm and still. Anesthesia allows the veterinarian to perform the procedure safely and accurately, even though it is not considered major surgery.
Once your pet is under anesthesia, the veterinarian will insert the rigid endoscope through the mouth, rectum, urethra, or another access point, depending on the suspected condition. The veterinarian uses rigid endoscopes to obtain a clear and stable view of the area, which helps detect issues such as tumours, polyps, or foreign bodies.
Veterinarians can also use the rigid endoscope to guide small instruments for biopsy or removal procedures, allowing them to address some issues immediately without performing more invasive surgery.
After the procedure, your pet may be drowsy due to anesthesia, but should recover quickly under our veterinary supervision. Your veterinarian will discuss the findings of the rigid endoscopy and recommend the following steps, which may include medication, monitoring, or additional procedures.
Follow-up care is a crucial component of the recovery process. At Apex Animal Hospital, we provide detailed post-procedure instructions to ensure your pet remains comfortable and healthy after the rigid endoscopy.
Rigid endoscopy is versatile and can help diagnose a range of conditions in pets, including:
By using rigid endoscopy, veterinarians in Langley, BC, can obtain a clear picture of what is happening inside your pet, leading to more accurate treatment and faster recovery.
At Apex Animal Hospital, our team has extensive experience performing rigid endoscopy on pets of all sizes. We prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety, using the latest equipment and techniques to ensure a thorough examination. Whether your pet requires a diagnostic procedure for chronic symptoms or a follow-up examination, rigid endoscopy allows us to address the problem with precision and care.
If your pet is exhibiting symptoms that are difficult to diagnose, a rigid endoscopy may provide the answers you need. Our veterinary team in Langley, BC, is ready to guide you through the process, from preparation to post-procedure care.
Contact Apex Animal Hospital today to schedule an appointment for a rigid endoscopy and help your pet get the care they need. Early diagnosis can significantly impact treatment outcomes, and flexible endoscopy is one of the most effective tools for achieving this goal.