Gastroduodenoscopy refers to an examination of the inner surface of the stomach and the initial portion of the small intestine (duodenum) using a flexible, fiberoptic endoscope. In addition to visual inspection, gastroduodenoscopy provides the ability to obtain multiple biopsies from the lining of the small intestine and stomach. Gastroduodenoscopy, therefore, provides an excellent tool in the diagnosis of multiple disorders of the intestinal system. Although general anesthesia is required, gastroduodenoscopy is generally a safe, non-surgical, non-painful procedure. Most patients are discharged the same day that the procedure is performed.

The major symptoms and reasons to perform a gastroduodenoscopy are:

  1. Persistent vomiting
  2. Persistent weight loss due to a small bowel disorder
  3. Black, tarry stools (persistent melena)
  4. Chronic diarrhea due to a small intestine disorder
  5. Vomiting blood
  6. Possible stomach or intestinal blockage
  7. Inability to chew or swallow normally (dysphagia)
  8. Removal of foreign matter from the stomach or esophagus
  9. Placement of a feeding tube
See our departments

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.
 

Our Internal Medicine Services

Abdominocentesis
Arthrocentesis
Bronchoalveolar lavage BAL
Bronchoscopy

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