Gastroscopy
Advanced Diagnostic for Equine Gastric Ulcers
At Cave Creek Equine™ Sports Medicine & Surgery, we use gastroscopy to accurately diagnose equine gastric ulcers and other stomach conditions that may impact your horse’s health, behavior, and performance. This minimally invasive procedure gives our team a clear, detailed view of the stomach lining, allowing for precise diagnosis and targeted treatment that supports both recovery and long-term well-being.
What is Gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is the only definitive way to diagnose equine gastric ulcers. This procedure uses a specialized, long, flexible video endoscope to visually examine the inside of a horse’s stomach. By passing the scope through the nostril, esophagus, and into the stomach, our veterinarians can directly observe ulcerations, inflammation, and other abnormalities in the stomach lining.
We perform gastroscopy with the horse comfortably sedated and appropriately fasted to ensure a clear, thorough view of the stomach.
When Do We Recommend Gastroscopy?
Gastric ulcers are common in performance horses and horses under stress, and signs can be subtle or easily mistaken for other issues. We recommend gastroscopy when a horse shows:
- Poor performance or behavior changes under saddle
- Reluctance to work or girthiness
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Chronic colic or sensitivity during grooming
- Suspected or known history of gastric ulcers
- Follow-up assessment after treatment
Horses can develop ulcers in both the squamous (upper) and glandular (lower) portions of the stomach, and severity can vary, making direct visualization essential for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
What Are the Benefits of Gastroscopy?
- Definitive diagnosis of equine gastric ulcer disease (EGUS)
- Clear identification of ulcer location, type, and severity
- Customized treatment plans based on scope findings
- Monitoring of healing after treatment with follow-up scoping
- Improved comfort and performance when ulcers are properly treated
Gastroscopy is the most accurate way to diagnose ulcers and ensures that your horse receives the right treatment for the best possible outcome, whether they’re in training, competition, or recovery.
For more information or to schedule a visit with a sports medicine specialist, please contact us at 623-581-5508.
