What is an outpatient gastroscopy for a horse?
Stomach problems such as gastric ulcers (ulcers ventriculi) are common in horses and can lead to serious health disorders. At the veterinary practice of Dr. Nina Rödig, we offer a modern and gentle method for the diagnosis and treatment of stomach conditions: The Outpatient Gastroscopy on horses. This precise examination allows for the quick and reliable detection of stomach problems such as gastric ulcers and inflammation.
The Gastroscopy on horses, also Gastroscopy in horses which is referred to as, is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed without major surgery. The endoscope is introduced into the horse's stomach via the oesophagus. This technique allows for a thorough examination of the gastric mucosa and the upper small intestine. Gastric ulcers, mucosal lesions, chronic inflammation, or other pathological changes are quickly and reliably detected and diagnosed.
Advantages of outpatient gastroscopy in the stable
Ein großer Vorteil unserer Praxis ist die On-site gastroscopy in the stable. This method spares your horse the stress of being transported to an equine clinic or practice. The examination takes place in your horse's familiar environment, which ensures a calmer atmosphere. For the examination, your horse will receive a low dose of sedation to further minimise the stress of the examination. With the Stable endoscopy Receive a quick and accurate diagnosis without unnecessarily stressing your horse.
A gastroscopy is useful when symptoms suggest a problem in the oesophagus, stomach, or duodenum. These symptoms can include: * **Persistent indigestion or heartburn:** If it doesn't respond to medication or is severe. * **Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia):** Feeling like food is getting stuck. * **Pain in the upper abdomen:** Especially if it's chronic or severe. * **Unexplained weight loss:** This can sometimes be a sign of an underlying issue. * **Vomiting, especially with blood:** This is a significant symptom that requires investigation. * **Black, tarry stools (melaena) or passing blood:** This indicates bleeding in the upper digestive tract. * **Anaemia:** If a cause for iron deficiency anaemia isn't found elsewhere. * **Monitoring for complications:** For people with existing conditions like Barrett's oesophagus or previous ulcers, to check for changes. * **To perform biopsies:** To test for conditions like H. pylori infection, coeliac disease, or cancerous/precancerous changes. * **To remove polyps or treat bleeding:** Therapeutic gastroscopies can remove small growths or stop bleeding from ulcers. Your doctor will assess your individual symptoms and medical history to determine if a gastroscopy is the most appropriate investigation for you.
A gastroscopy is particularly recommended for symptoms such as colic, loss of appetite, behavioural changes, girthiness, sudden reluctance to move, or changes in behaviour that could indicate pain. Even in performance horses, regular examination can help to detect gastric problems early and treat them in a timely and targeted manner. A follow-up examination after the initial diagnosis is also naturally possible.
Trust the expertise of the Veterinary Practice Dr. Nina Rödig and have your horse examined stress-free and comprehensively. Contact Sie uns, um eine Stable endoscopy to arrange and jointly create an individual therapy plan.
