Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine and treat joint disorders. Through a small incision, the veterinarian inserts a fiberoptic scope with a video camera to visualize the joint in real time. Arthroscopy can be performed in several joints and is most commonly used for the elbow, shoulder, and stifle.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the gastrointestinal tract. It can be performed on the upper GI tract (mouth, esophagus, stomach, and duodenum) or the lower GI tract (rectum and colon). Using a flexible fiberoptic scope with a video camera, the veterinarian can identify abnormalities, collect biopsies, and, in some cases, remove foreign objects that pets may have swallowed.

Bronchoscopy

Bronchoscopy allows for examination of the large airways of the respiratory system, including the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. A flexible fiberoptic scope with a video camera is used to visualize these structures. This procedure helps diagnose airway diseases, obtain biopsies, and collect samples to test for infections.

Otoscopy

Otoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to closely examine the external ear canal and tympanic membrane (eardrum). A fiberoptic scope with a video camera provides superior illumination and magnification compared to a traditional handheld otoscope. This allows veterinarians to diagnose ear conditions, perform treatments and biopsies, collect samples for infection testing, and remove foreign objects such as foxtail grass seeds.
At Sky Canyon Veterinary Hospital, otoscopy is sometimes combined with CT imaging to assess the middle and inner ear when deeper involvement is suspected.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the abdominal organs and perform a variety of surgical interventions. A fiberoptic camera allows the veterinarian to assess the size, shape, color, texture, and position of abdominal organs. Many abdominal surgeries can be performed using just 2–3 small incisions (approximately 1 cm each), resulting in less pain and faster recovery.
For a complete list of laparoscopic procedures, please visit our Laparoscopy (Minimally Invasive Abdominal Surgery) page.

Rhinoscopy

Rhinoscopy allows for examination of the nasal passages using a fiberoptic scope with a video camera. This procedure helps diagnose nasal diseases, collect biopsies and samples, perform treatments, and remove foreign objects such as foxtail grass seeds. At Sky Canyon Veterinary Hospital, rhinoscopy is often paired with CT imaging to evaluate the sinuses and deeper or less accessible areas of the nasal cavity.