MINIMALLY INVASIVE CARE

Respiratory Tract

A minimally invasive examination of the airways and respiratory tract from the nasal passages to the lower airways for direct diagnosis, sampling and treatment.

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What is Respiratory Endoscopy?

Respiratory endoscopy, also known as bronchoscopy, uses a flexible endoscope to examine the airways and respiratory tract, including the nasal passages, nasopharynx, pharynx and soft palate, larynx, trachea, and the bronchi and lower airways. It provides real-time visual assessment that imaging alone cannot offer.

It is one of the most valuable tools for reaching a definitive diagnosis in respiratory cases, and is also interventional: biopsy, cytology and fluid samples can be collected, foreign bodies removed, and airway stents placed and monitored. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and is minimally invasive, safe and well tolerated.

Key Benefits

Why this minimally invasive approach is the right choice for your pet.

1

Real-time assessment

Direct visual evaluation of airway structures, including laryngeal function.

2

Same-visit sampling

Biopsy, cytology and fluid samples are collected for laboratory analysis.

3

Diagnostic & therapeutic

Also used to remove foreign bodies and place and monitor airway stents.

In Detail

A closer look at how this procedure works and what it can diagnose and treat.

Why it is important

Respiratory diseases are common in companion animals and can be difficult to diagnose accurately using imaging alone. Endoscopy is one of the most valuable tools for achieving a definitive diagnosis.

  • Real-time visual assessment of airway structures
  • Functional evaluation, such as laryngeal movement
  • Precise sampling for laboratory analysis
  • Targeted treatment options

Diagnostic capabilities

  • Examine the entire airway in detail
  • Assess structural abnormalities
  • Evaluate laryngeal function
  • Identify inflammation, infection or masses
  • Collect biopsy, cytology and fluid samples for culture

Therapeutic applications

In addition to diagnosis, bronchoscopy can be used for treatment, making it both a diagnostic and interventional tool.

  • Removal of foreign bodies (e.g. grass seeds)
  • Placement and monitoring of airway stents
  • Evaluation of airway injury
  • Monitoring progression of chronic respiratory disease

Imaging vs endoscopy

Radiography (X-rays), CT and MRI are useful for identifying the location and extent of lesions. However, they cannot provide direct visualisation of mucosal surfaces or tissue samples for diagnosis.

Endoscopy complements imaging by enabling a definitive diagnosis through biopsy and sampling.

Procedure and safety

Respiratory endoscopy is performed under general anaesthesia.

  • A flexible endoscope is inserted into the airway
  • Upper and lower respiratory structures are systematically examined
  • Samples are collected or treatment performed if needed
  • Minimally invasive, safe and well tolerated with experienced clinicians

Monitoring and prognosis

  • Monitoring disease progression
  • Evaluating response to treatment
  • Assessing long-term airway changes

What to Expect

1

Initial Investigations

We review history and run initial, non-invasive tests and imaging to confirm the procedure is appropriate and safe.

2

General Anaesthesia

Your pet is placed under general anaesthesia and carefully monitored to ensure comfort and safety.

3

Endoscopic Examination

The endoscope is gently introduced and the relevant structures are examined in high detail.

4

Sampling & Treatment

Biopsies or treatment are carried out during the same procedure where needed, and findings are discussed with you.

At a Glance

Anaesthesia

General

Approach

Minimally invasive

Endoscope

Flexible

Use

Diagnostic & therapeutic

Common signs

  • Chronic coughing
  • Noisy breathing (stertor or stridor)
  • Exercise intolerance
  • Breathing difficulty

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure your pet’s comfort, safety and a thorough, pain-free examination. It is minimally invasive and well tolerated when performed by experienced clinicians.
As a minimally invasive technique, it avoids the large incisions of traditional surgery, which means less tissue trauma, lower complication rates and a faster recovery. Your specialist will provide aftercare guidance based on the findings.
Contact our team by phone or WhatsApp, or use the Book Consultation button. This procedure is typically arranged as part of a comprehensive diagnostic work-up, often alongside initial tests and imaging.

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