Upper GI Endoscopy

At Harmony Animal Hospital, we know that your pet’s well-being is your top priority, and it is ours too. That’s why we’re proud to offer Upper GI Endoscopy—a vital procedure for diagnosing and treating conditions like chronic vomiting or swallowed objects. Our expert veterinarians use this gentle, minimally invasive technique to ensure your fur baby receives the highest level of care with the least discomfort.

What is Upper GI Endoscopy?

Upper GI Endoscopy is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that gives our veterinarians a clear view of your pet’s stomach and upper small intestine. We access these vital organs using a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope).

This advanced technique allows us to safely and more easily remove foreign body objects or take tissue samples (biopsies) from your dog or cat with minimal time under anesthesia. Biopsies taken during endoscopy are small pieces of tissue from the internal aspect of the GI tract. These samples do not require sutures or cause discomfort to your pet.

When is Endoscopy for Dogs and Cats Recommended?

Foreign Body Ingestion: Pets, especially the curious ones, sometimes swallow objects that can cause blockages or harm to their digestive systems. If your pet shows signs of discomfort, vomiting, or a refusal to eat, an Upper GI Endoscopy can help us quickly locate and remove the foreign object, preventing further complications.

Chronic Vomiting: Persistent vomiting can be distressing for both pets and their owners. This condition may be caused by a variety of issues, such as gastritis, ulcers, tumors, or inflammatory bowel disease. Upper GI Endoscopy allows us to pinpoint the exact cause to create an effective treatment plan for your pet.

Benefits of Upper GI Endoscopy

  • Minimally Invasive: Unlike traditional surgery (open), endoscopy is minimally invasive, which means less pain and faster recovery times for your pet.
  • Accurate Diagnosis: The high-resolution images and biopsies obtained during the procedure provide a detailed understanding of the GI tract, leading to a precise and informed diagnosis.
  • Reduced Risk: With fewer complications and a lower risk of infection, endoscopy is a safer option for your pet’s care.

What to Expect with Upper GI Endoscopy for Dogs and Cats

  • Pre-Procedure Consultation: Our veterinarians will thoroughly examine your pet and review his or her medical history. We’ll explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have.
  • Preparation: To get the clearest view possible, your pet may need to fast for several hours before the procedure. Sedation or anesthesia will be administered to keep your pet calm and comfortable.
  • The Procedure: The endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth and passed through the esophagus into the stomach.The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity. During the procedure, your veterinarian examines the internal aspect of the GI tract and may take biopsies or remove any foreign objects as needed.
  • Recovery: After the procedure, your pet will be monitored closely until the effects of the anesthesia wear off. Most pets can go home the same day and return to their usual activities shortly after.

At-Home Endoscopy Recovery Care

Our care team will provide detailed instructions for at-home care. In general, we recommend a quiet and comfortable space for rest and a limited diet with limited activity for 24-48 hours to prevent stress on the GI tract.

Follow-Up Care

We will call you the day after your pet’s procedure to make sure your pet is feeling well at home after anesthesia. If biopsies were taken, our care team will call you to discuss the results as soon as we get them back. At that time, we will also discuss any further treatment plans.

Why Choose Harmony Animal Hospital

  • Experienced Veterinarians: Our team is highly skilled in performing endoscopic procedures, ensuring your pet receives the best possible care.
  • State-of-the-art equipment: We use the latest endoscopy technology for accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
  • Compassionate Care: We treat every pet as our own, providing personalized attention and care throughout the process.

If your pet is experiencing chronic vomiting or you suspect he or she has ingested something inappropriate, don’t hesitate to contact Harmony Animal Hospital at 919-303-3456.