Gastroscopy

All our vets are able to perform gastroscopy out on yards. Gastroscopy in horses is a diagnostic procedure used to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract, specifically the oesophagus, stomach, and the entrance to the small intestine.

Gastroscopy is useful in cases where gastric (stomach) ulcers are suspected as part of a condition called EGUS (Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome).

Horses with gastric ulceration often present one or more of the following signs:

• Low grade, intermittent, colic signs
• Poor appetite
• Behavioural changes (such as appearing more grumpy than usual, sometimes nipping over the stable door, etc)
• Poor performance when ridden

The procedure involves passing a flexible video endoscope, typically about three meters long, through the horse’s nostril and down the oesophagus into the stomach. The video camera allows the vet to visually examine the stomach lining, identifying ulcers, inflammation, or other abnormalities that could affect the horse’s health and performance.

Before a gastroscopy, the horse must be fasted, typically for 10-12 hours, to ensure the stomach is empty and provides a clear view of the stomach lining. Sedation is normally administered to keep the horse calm and still during the procedure.

Appropriate treatment of gastric ulcers is usually very rewarding; a change in medication and management (according to the type, location and severity of lesions found) can lead to almost complete resolution in many cases after only a month.