Exotic mammal diagnostic endoscopy and endosurgery

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Comparative Medicine
• Exotic Animal Surgery

Background:

• Endoscopy is well-established in avian and domestic animal practice.
• Its application in exotic mammals (rabbits, rodents, ferrets) is a recent development.
• Rigid endoscopy was initially limited to oral cavity evaluations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize common endoscopic procedures for exotic mammals in first opinion and referral cases.
• To introduce recent advancements in exotic animal endoscopy.
• To highlight future standards of care in exotic animal endoscopic practices.

Main Methods:

• Review of common rigid endoscopic procedures performed by the author.
• Inclusion of laparoscopic procedures.
• Discussion of emerging endoscopic techniques and technologies.

Main Results:

• Rigid endoscopy is now invaluable for evaluating the nasal cavity and urogenital tract in exotic mammals.
• Laparoscopic procedures are increasingly incorporated.
• Several recent developments are poised to become standard practice.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopy offers comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for exotic mammals.
• The scope of endoscopic applications in exotic animals continues to expand.
• Future practices will benefit from ongoing technological and procedural advancements in veterinary endoscopy.