What to Look for in a Veterinary Endoscope

Veterinary endoscopes are an amazing tool that can help with diagnostics and therapeutic procedures in several body systems. However, because of their wide range of uses, there are many different options to choose from when purchasing an endoscope.

The previous article covered key features such as endoscope sizes, whether the scope should be rigid or flexible, and the importance of high-quality images and video. 

Below, read on for more information on specific features, tools, and other considerations for purchasing the right endoscope for your practice’s needs.

Features, Tools, and Accessories

Tools can really boost an endoscope’s functionality and expand the number of services a veterinary hospital offers. 

Some tools may come as part of the endoscope, while others are added on. The good news is, more tools can be added over time. However, if there is a specific type of procedure a veterinarian knows they want to offer, it’s important to check that the scope being purchased will accommodate a tool or attachment for that purpose.

Here are some frequently used features and tools in veterinary endoscopy…

• Light source. Typically included as part of the endoscope system, a good light source such as LED is important for seeing and assessing things clearly. 

• Air and water. These allow for the cleaning of debris from the lens or area of interest, as well as air insufflation when necessary.

• Suction. Suction can be useful for removing excessive fluids or secretions in the area being evaluated, removal of saline or air insufflation administered during the procedure, or for aspirating fluid samples for testing (for example, bronchoalveolar lavage). It can also be helpful for cleaning the endoscope after a procedure.

• Biopsy forceps. This is probably one of the most commonly used endoscopy tools that would be passed through the working channel of the instrument. These small forceps can obtain “pinch biopsies” for histopathology evaluation. Biopsy cups and other instruments might also be used for this purpose. The largest biopsy tool that can fit into the channel is the best option to obtain large enough tissue samples for analysis.

• Foreign object retrievers. These can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including rat tooth or alligator forceps, snares, baskets, or nets. The variety of options makes it possible for veterinarians to remove many different types of foreign bodies from the digestive or respiratory tracts, without the need for more invasive surgery.

• Balloon dilation. A set of catheters for balloon dilation can be used in the treatment of strictures.

While not a complete list of all possible tools, features, and functions, this list gives an idea of some of the most common accessories that a veterinarian may want to look for when purchasing an endoscopy system.

As a general rule, make sure the working channel is wide enough to accommodate the tools you plan to purchase. And use tools that are longer than the endoscope so it will be easy to advance them into the channel and use them in a controlled manner.

User Friendliness and Learning Curve

Adequate training, including hands-on experience and practice, is crucial for any practitioner planning to use endoscopy. This allows for accurate and safe patient evaluation.

Team members also need to be trained on their endoscopy roles, which may include setup, assisting the vet during a procedure, and keeping the equipment clean and well-maintained.

Courses are available at some conferences and other continuing education events. Some veterinary endoscopy systems even come with training, whether in person or remotely. Personal guidance and instruction, as well as hands-on practice, are important.

Other Considerations

A veterinary practice will want their investment to last. Factors such as the durability of the equipment itself, as well as what a warranty and service plan look like and cost, should be considered.

Compatible hardware and software are necessary for viewing, storing, and sharing endoscopy studies. 

Speaking to a specialist who frequently uses endoscopy is a smart way to ensure the practice is purchasing a scope that meets their clinical needs and has a good recommendation.

Finally, a veterinary practice should have a financial or business plan incorporating financing and budget for the purchase, tax benefits, and a plan of use for the equipment (expected usage, how much to charge, marketing and talking to clients about endoscopy, etc.) to maximize the return on investment for this equipment. 

While this can all require a lot of research, the time will be well spent because it helps a veterinary practice determine the best endoscope for them, and then maximize their ROI on that investment while providing great patient care.

 Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM