Endoscopy

An endoscope is a type of advanced medical imaging equipment that can be used to examine the inside of your cat’s body. It captures images by using a highly advanced camera attached to a light source, and produces video and still images. Endoscopy is a relatively non-invasive procedure and can be used to diagnose and treat a number of medical conditions in the cat.

At Perth Cat Hospital, we have invested in a selection of brand new Karl Storz endoscopes that are specifically designed for use in cats. Our range of endoscopes that allow us to perform a number of procedures.

• Video otoscope – provides detailed imaging of the inside of the cat’s ear canal right down to the ear drum. This allows us to perform ear flushes safely to treat ear infections, and collect samples for cytology, culture and sensitivity testing.
• Feline bronchoscope – provides a detailed examination of your cat’s upper respiratory tract and part of their main airways
• Video gastroscope – provides a detailed examination of your cat’s upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. These examinations are particularly useful for the identification and subsequent removal of foreign bodies in the oesophagus and stomach. Endoscopies also provide a non-invasive method of taking biopsies of some parts of the gastrointestinal tract. During this procedure we are able to evaluate for the presence of polyps and tumours, assess the lining of the oesophagus and stomach and retrieve any ingested foreign bodies such as pieces of string. The endoscope also has a biopsy channel which allows us to be able to take small biopsies and other pathology samples.
• Rigid scope – we use this delicate scope to getting into the tiny nose of the cat for a procedure called rhinoscopy. This allows us to investigate inflammation, discharges, polyps, tumours and even foreign bodies such as grass seeds!

Endoscopy is always performed under general anaesthesia however the recovery from this procedure is usually very quick. Dr Martine has successfully completed the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in-depth training course. This internationally acclaimed course includes nine examinations to ensure their graduates have a very high standard of theorectical knowledge.