Endoscopy

Endoscopy is an imaging, minimally invasive procedure in which body cavities and hollow organs can be viewed and examined using an endoscope. Endoscopes are either rigid or flexible and have a light source and a camera at the front that transmits the image directly to a screen.

INHALT
Areas of application
Areas of application

Endoscopy is used to diagnose diseases and can also be used for therapeutic purposes. For example, foreign bodies can be removed, minor surgical procedures can be performed, and medication can be administered locally. A working channel on the endoscope can also be used to take fluid and tissue samples for further examination.

In veterinary medicine, endoscopy is mainly used for the following purposes:

  • Examination of the upper and lower respiratory tract (=bronchoscopy)
  • Examination of the inside of the nose (= rhinoscopy)
  • Examination of the larynx (= laryngoscopy)
  • Examination of the abdomen (=laparoscopy)
  • Examination of the stomach (= gastroscopy)
  • Examination of the uterus (=hysteroscopy)
  • Bladder examination (= cystoscopy)
  • Chest cavity examination (=thoracoscopy)
  • Joint endoscopy (see corresponding article)
  • Ear endoscopy (= otoscopy)
  • Air sac examination in horses

Endoscopy is performed either under general anesthesia or heavy sedation (= sedation).