Bronchoscopy

BRONCHOSCOPY AND TRACHEOSCOPY

Bronchoscopy is the endoscopic evaluation of the primary airways in the lungs and tracheoscopy is the endoscopic study of the trachea. In most cases a small, short flexible scope is used to perform the study. Samples for culture and analysis can be obtained through the bronchoscope using either a fluid lavage technique (the flushing and retrieval of sterile fluid) or a sterile brush. Foreign matter can be identified and often removed. Samples of airway growths can be obtained with biopsy instruments. In larger dogs, the scope can be passed down the throat without disruption of anesthesia or oxygen. Bronchoscopy requires little patient preparation outside of withholding food the morning of the scheduled procedure. Most patients are discharged the same day that the procedure is performed.

The major symptoms and reasons to perform a bronchoscopy/tracheoscopy are:

Persistent coughing
Study and removal of foreign matter in the trachea and lungs
To obtain biopsies from the trachea or major airways
To aid in the diagnosis of a collapsed trachea or lung
To obtain samples for testing and sensitivity when pneumonia is suspected
To determine the location of a tear in the trachea

Internal Medicine

The Internal Medicine department is committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care for you and your pet.

Internal Medicine Specialists obtain additional training to diagnose and manage complex disease processes. Internists have extensive knowledge regarding the diagnostic evaluation and management of pets with immune-mediated disease, endocrine disorders, infectious diseases, respiratory disease, kidney/urogenital disease, liver disease, gastrointestinal disease, heart disease, bone marrow disorders, cancer, and age-related conditions.

The Internal Medicine team utilizes our on-site digital radiography, ultrasound, CT, and our in-house laboratory as well as outside reference laboratories when needed. Internal Medicine Specialists are adept at using a wide array of endoscopic procedures including rhinoscopy, bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy to evaluate specific areas and obtain samples. Internists may also employ minimally invasive diagnostic procedures such as joint fluid collection, cerebrospinal fluid tap, mass biopsies and bone marrow collection for additional information. Internists are trained to analyze this diagnostic data in relation to the clinical picture and develop a treatment plan for your pet.

Consultations with the internal medicine team can be made by referral from your family veterinarian. We look forward to participating in your pet’s care.

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Our Internal Medicine Services

Abdominocentesis

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Arthrocentesis

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Bronchoalveolar lavage BAL

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Bronchoscopy

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