When you need to see “guts,” endoscopy gives the inside scoop. Recent advances in endoscopic technology have led to smaller endoscopes that can go further into the body, see more clearly, take bigger samples, and serve a wider array of patient needs. The gastroenterology section of Cornell’s Hospital for Animals now utilizes new lines of updated fiber-optic technology.
The first-ever slimline large-channel portable veterinary endoscopes can connect to a lightweight laptop and easily be moved to an animal. This makes them particularly useful in surgery or for bringing to animals that should not be moved. When flexible endoscopy is not the answer, it may be time to swallow a pill. Wireless capsule endoscopy provides high-quality imaging throughout the entire GI tract without requiring anesthesia. Each single-use “Endo capsule” made by Olympus employs a tiny camera that takes pictures all the way through the digestive system and transmits data wirelessly to a receiver worn by the patient.
“We choose the most suitable imaging technology for each patient” said Dr. Kenneth Simpson, professor of internal medicine and gastroenterology. “Portable endoscopes work well in the surgery room. Capsule endoscopy is a great option for pets that cannot be anesthetized safely, or in cases when you need to see the entire gut. It can’t take tissue samples but it can help determine the nature and severity of intestinal damage and whether further intervention is needed. It is likely to be particularly useful in investigating the source of gastrointestinal bleeding.”
The gastroenterology and parasitology sections have teamed up to use capsule endoscopy for research sponsored by pharmaceutical company Novartis to safely validate anti-parasitic drugs.
Slimline large-channel biopsy-capable endoscopy, portable endoscopy, and capsule endoscopy are now available for clients and referring veterinarians.
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CUHA Beat