Our 1 and 3 meter fiberoptic endoscopes with a computerized monitor allow us to easily perform upper airway evaluations on the farm as well as gastric evaluations.
Gastroscopy allows visualization of the equine stomach and is used to diagnose equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS). It allows direct visualization of the stomach lining to assess and monitor the appearance of ulcers. Symptoms of ulcers can often be vague but include poor performance, changes in behavior, colic, weight loss, increased girthiness, and overall thriftiness.
Horses need to be fasted prior to being scoped to ensure the stomach is empty. Typically they are fed last the evening prior, and water is held the morning of the procedure.
Endoscopy allows us to evaluated the upper airway of the horse and assess for abnormalities causing respiratory noises or other pathologies.