Keyhole Surgery and Endoscopy
At Elizavet, we provide a selection of advanced endoscopy and keyhole surgery services. Endoscopy is an umbrella term for procedures that involve using an endoscope, a flexible or rigid camera-equipped instrument used to look inside a pet’s body. At Elizavet, we use state-of-the-art Storz Endoscopes, which are specifically designed for veterinary applications. Flexible endoscopes are utilised for inspecting and treating the stomach, oesophagus, lungs, and colon. Rigid endoscopes, on the other hand, are employed for inspecting the nose, performing joint examinations (arthroscopy), or conducting abdominal surgery (laparoscopy).
Using our advanced endoscopic equipment, our experienced veterinary surgeons can diagnose and treat pets through gentle, minimally invasive ‘keyhole’ procedures, helping to reduce discomfort and speed up recovery.
We welcome keyhole surgery and endoscopy referrals from pet owners and first opinion vet practices in areas like, but not limited to; Belsize Park and Primrose Hill, Hampstead and from across North and Central London, and further afield. You can read more about these services and our approach to them below.
Endoscopy and Keyhole Techniques for Safer Pet Surgery
Gastroscopy, colonoscopy and bronchoscopy
Flexible endoscopes are frequently inserted into the stomach or lungs through the mouth, or into the colon via the rectum. These cameras enable our veterinarians to inspect these organs without resorting to invasive surgical procedures, resulting in quicker and smoother recoveries.
The camera also allows additional procedures such as collecting tissue samples for a conclusive diagnosis (histopathology), removal of foreign bodies (from the oesophagus or stomach), or treatment of benign polyps in the colon.
Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery)
This technique involves employing a rigid endoscope camera, inflating the abdomen with CO₂, and using the camera for both diagnostic and treatment purposes. Keyhole spaying is the most common procedure performed using this method, but other interventions — including liver biopsy, intestine biopsy, cryptorchid castration, splenectomy, cystotomy, and gastropexy — can also be successfully carried out.
Video-endoscopic surgery offers numerous advantages, such as reduced post-operative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional procedures. Other benefits include minimal wound inflammation, a lower risk of infection, and improved visualisation of organs during surgery.
Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy involves the use of a small camera to examine the interior of a joint. It is employed to identify and, when feasible, treat issues involving cartilage, tendons, ligaments, or meniscal injuries. Arthroscopy can also be used to remove small bony fragments, such as those related to Elbow UAP or FCP. This procedure is commonly undertaken for diagnosing and treating Elbow Dysplasia in dogs.
We welcome keyhole surgery and endoscopy referrals from pet owners and first opinion vet practices from across North London, Central London and further afield. If you need more information please contact us to speak to one of our veterinary surgeons, otherwise …