Fluoroscopic and endoscopic localization of an esophagobronchial fistula in a dog

Imaging and endoscopic diagnosis of lung diseases in small animals. A review

Diagnostic imaging plays a fundamental role in the diagnosis of pulmonary diseases. Radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography, and endoscopy are important tools for achieving a diagnosis. The choice of diagnostic procedure varies according to the patient, the suspected diagnosis and the risk/benefit ratio. Culture, cytology and histology are nearly always necessary to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Several biopsy sampling techniques are described. Surgical biopsies are the gold standard for the diagnosis of bronchiolitis or interstitial lung diseases but often not performed due to the high risk. In humans, the introduction of transbronchial cryobiopsies has led to excellent results in the study of interstitial lung diseases.

Flexible endoscopy in small animals

Flexible endoscopy is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of many small animal digestive tract diseases. This article provides a basic introduction to small animal gastrointestinal endoscopy including its diagnostic advantages as well as its limitations and complications. Although proficiency in endoscopic techniques can only be obtained through many hours of practice, this article should also encourage and stimulate the novice endoscopist.