Endoscopy

Endoscopy

We can offer a range of diagnostics thanks to our endoscopic equipment here at Donaldson’s. Our endoscopes are able to be transported easily to can be incorporated into out ambulatory work as well as being used at our Woodnook equine unit.

Respiratory Endoscopy

This type of endoscopy is used to assess the horses’ upper respiratory system. Respiratory endoscopy is particularly useful in assessing the trachea, bronchioles and often guttural pouches. The vet can use the endoscope to take samples from these areas to aid their diagnosis.

Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy involves assessing a horses stomach using a 3 metre long flexible endoscope. This procedure is carried out very regularly by our equine vets and is primarily used to diagnose gastric ulcers as well as other conditions such as delayed gastric emptying (gastroparesis). For this procedure, the horse will be sedated but standing and is usually well tolerated. In order for the stomach to be properly assessed, your horse must be starved for at least 16 hours and have water withheld for 2 hours prior to the procedure.

Please follow this link for more information on gastric ulcers and our gastroscopy clincs.