Here is a short list of a few of the more common procedures offered by MVC and their descriptions. For complete information please contact your primary care vet or Dr. Sobel directly.
DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND- diagnostic ultrasound can be performed on the abdominal cavity, thoracic cavity as well as other body parts. This non invasive imaging modality uses sound waves to produce a black and white/gray scale image of the area of interest. The procedure can usually be performed without anesthesia or sedation and is used to evaluate the size and structure of almost any body organ. Common indications for ultrasound include liver and kidney disease, adrenal gland disease, gastrointestinal disease, cancerous or benign tumors, bladder or prostate disease and much more. Ultrasound can also be used to guide the placement of a biopsy needle for the retrieval of tissue for laboratory analysis.
ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY- Echocardiography is an ultrasound examination of the heart that allows for evaluation of the size, structure and functionality of the heart. Again, this can be done in most cases without anesthesia or sedation. Commonly echocardiography is done for patients with heart murmurs or clinical signs of heart disease. Numerical measurements are made of all parts of the heart to determine the source and severity of problems and allow for planning for treatment. Screening is often done in patients planning to undergo anesthesia for surgery or dental cleanings.
GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY- in this procedure a patient is placed under general anesthesia. A long flexible endoscope with a camera attached is inserted into the esophagus, stomach and small intestine or into the colon for visual examination and for the retrieval of tissue for biopsy analysis. Tumors or masses can be biopsied and in some cases the use of our special endoscopic laser system allows for the removal or reduction of masses that are visualized. GI endoscopy is often recommended for patients with vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss or inappetance. Often dogs or cats who have eaten something inappropriate can have the foreign material removed with endoscopy.
BRONCHOSCOPY- In bronchoscopy a smaller but similar endoscope is inserted through the mouth, down the trachea and into the main tubes of the lungs (the bronchi). This procedure, done under light general anesthesia, allows for visual examination of the trachea and lower airways. Fluid or tissue can be retrieved for laboratory analysis and the functionality of the airway can also be assessed. Common indications for bronchoscopy include coughing or difficulty breathing.
URETHROCYSTOSCOPY- Endoscopy of the lower urinary tract involves the placement of either a small flexible endoscope or a rigid endoscope into either the penis or the vagina of the patient. This allows for visualization of the urethra, vagina, cervix, bladder and ureters of the patient. We can biopsy tissues and remove bladder or urethral stones. Using the diode laser system we can remove or reduce tumors of the urethra or bladder allowing for improved urinary function. Certain congenital birth defects such as ectopic ureters can also be addressed endoscopically with the laser. Common reasons for urinary tract endoscopy include recurrent infection, incontinence, bloody urine, difficulty urinating or infertility.
RHINO/SINUSOSCOPY- This procedure involves the insertion of a rigid or flexible endoscope into the nose or sinuses. With this we can visually examine the nasal passages and take tissue samples for biopsy analysis or culture, remove foreign material or use the laser to help remove or reduce nasal tumors or polyps. Common indications for rhinoscopy include chronic nasal discharge, bloody nose, facial or nasal deformity or difficult or noisy breathing. General anesthesia is required and a bloody nose is a common post operative occurrence but is rarely of any cause for concern.
OTOENDOSCOPY- Endoscopy of the ear involves placing a rigid endoscope into the ear to examine both the exterior and middle portions of the ear. The ear canal, ear drum (tympanic membrane) and middle ear can be evaluated and tissue retrieved for biopsy. The laser can also be used to remove polyps or tumors as well as to perform a myringotomy (surgical opening of the ear drum) to allow for drainage of the middle ear. Dogs and cats with chronic ear infections, head shaking, or ear polyps or masses are often candidates for this procedure.
LAPAROSCOPY- Laparoscopy is a surgical endoscopy that involves placement of a rigid endoscope into the abdominal cavity. This allows for exploration of the abdomen with 2 or 3 small (5mm) incisions, rather than the aggressive surgery traditionally required. This procedure can be used to diagnose liver or pancreatic disease as well as kidney or intestinal problems among many others. Surgically, gall bladders can be removed, the stomach can be tacked into place to prevent stomach torsion (GDV), and routine female spays can be performed. Recovery from laparoscopy is generally very quick and most patients go home the same day of the surgery.
THORACOSCOPY- Thoracoscopy is surgical endoscopic evaluation of the chest cavity. This involves placement of an endoscope and associated instruments into the chest without the risk and discomfort associated with traditional surgery of the thoracic cavity. Lungs and associated tumors can be biopsied and in some cases can be removed. The sac around the heart can be opened up if fluid is accumulating (pericardial effusion) and some congenital birth defects can be treated (PRAA). Thoracoscopy generally requires 2-3days hospital stay but diminished pain and more rapid recovery and return to function make this a good alternative to traditional chest and heart surgery for some patients.
This is a very incomplete list of our diagnostic and surgical offerings. For more information or specific questions about a particular case contact
Dr. Sobel directly.
