What is an endoscope and how is it used?
An endoscope is a flexible tube with a viewing port and/or a video camera attachment that is inserted into the stomach through the mouth. The endoscope permits inspection of the inside of the esophagus and stomach.
If a foreign body such as a bone, stick, rock, toy, coin, or hairball is seen, it can be seen and sometimes retrieved. It can also be used to identify abnormalities such as inflammation, ulceration, abnormal swelling, or areas of scarring or stricture (abnormal narrowing).
Is general anesthesia required?
Yes. It is impossible to safely pass an endoscope into a conscious animal’s stomach. Pets will require only a short-acting anesthesia and the patient is allowed to go home shortly after completion of the procedure.