Endoscopy

Summit Animal Hospital offers minimally invasive endoscopy for dogs and cats, diagnosing and treating GI issues with minimal recovery time.

Endoscopy Services at Summit Animal Hospital, Winterset, IA

Advanced Endoscopy for Dogs and Cats

We are proud to offer advanced endoscopy services for dogs and cats. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that provides a detailed view of your pet’s internal structures, helping us diagnose and treat various gastrointestinal issues without the need for surgery.

What is Endoscopy?

Endoscopy involves using a flexible tube equipped with a camera to visualize the internal structures of your pet’s gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We aslo do video otoscopy for biopsying masses, myringotomy (sampling the middle ear/culture), and removing excess ear wax that can harbor infection.

This procedure can effectively identify and address issues such as:

Gastric foreign bodies
Inflammation
Ulcers
Tumors
Polyps

Benefits of Endoscopy

Endoscopy offers numerous benefits for your pet, including:

Minimal Risk: As a non-invasive procedure, endoscopy significantly reduces the risks associated with traditional surgery.
Quick Recovery: Pets typically go home the same day, with minimal recovery time.
Accurate Diagnosis: Provides a clear view of the upper and lower GI tract, enabling precise diagnosis.
Biopsy Collection: Allows for the collection of tissue biopsies from the GI tract without the need for surgical intervention.

When is Endoscopy Recommended?

Our veterinarians may recommend endoscopy if your pet is experiencing symptoms such as:

Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
Unexplained weight loss
Blood in the stool or vomit
Difficulty swallowing
Persistent abdominal pain

What to Expect During Your Pet's Endoscopy

Preparation

Your pet will undergo a brief fasting period before the procedure to ensure a clear view of the GI tract.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia is administered to keep your pet comfortable and still during the procedure.

Procedure

The endoscope is gently inserted into your pet’s GI tract to visualize and assess the area of concern.

Recovery

After the procedure, your pet will be monitored until fully awake and stable. Most pets can go home the same day.

Post-Procedure Care

Following endoscopy, your pet may experience mild discomfort or bloating, which usually resolves quickly. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and be available to address any concerns you may have.

Schedule an Endoscopy Appointment

If you notice any signs of gastrointestinal distress in your pet, contact Summit Animal Hospital at (515) 462-3711 to schedule an appointment. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

Schedule an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions About Endoscopy

Endoscopy is an important tool in diagnosing and treating various gastrointestinal issues in pets. To help you better understand this service, we’ve compiled answers to some common questions about endoscopy.

What is the purpose of endoscopy in pets?

Endoscopy is used to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal issues, remove foreign objects, and collect tissue biopsies without the need for surgery.

Is endoscopy safe for my pet?

Yes, endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure with minimal risk, especially compared to traditional surgery. Our team takes all necessary precautions to ensure your pet’s safety.

How long does the endoscopy procedure take?

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the case. Most pets can go home the same day.

Will my pet be in pain after the procedure?

Your pet may experience mild discomfort or bloating, but this usually resolves quickly. Pain management and aftercare instructions will be provided.

How do I prepare my pet for an endoscopy?

Your pet will need to fast for a specific period before the procedure. Our team will provide detailed instructions on how to prepare your pet.