Maximizing Lower GI Endoscopic Examinations
This veterinarian gives some practical tips for maximizing lower GI endoscopic examinations and biopsy of the small intestine and colon in dogs and cats.
When it comes to lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopic examinations, Albert Jergens, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVIM (SAIM), professor at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, wants veterinarians to remember a few key things.
Once you get in the small bowel, Dr. Jergens says make sure to get multiple biopsies from the duodenum. Also be sure to prep these animals for colonoscopy and get ileum biopsies, which he says are critically important. Remember with cats that are particularly prone to GI small-cell lymphoma, you can pick this up adequately in the small intestine by taking a biopsy of the ileum. Dr. Jergens also advises veterinarians to be sure to sample all 3 colonic regions during a colonoscopy.
