Avian endosurgery.

Abstract

Endoscopy has proven to be an important diagnostic tool for avian veterinarians wishing to visualize and biopsy internal structures. To date, most of the described endoscopic procedures are single-entry techniques. The use of miniature laparoscopy equipment has been pioneered in human pediatrics and many of these instruments now can be used used in zoologic companion animal practice. The addition of a second and third port using 2.5 or 3.5 mm cannulae has facilitated the use of 2 or 3 mm instruments within the avian coelom. Triangulation of various instruments, coupled with radiosurgical hemostasis, has made several procedures including salpingohysterectomy and orchidectomy possible endoscopically. In addition, endoscope-assisted minimally invasive procedures including enterotomy, enterectomy, cloacopexy, and pneumotomy may be initiated internally and completed using more established techniques externally. The advent of minimally invasive endoscopic surgery offers significant benefits including rapid and accurate diagnosis, reduced need for an extensive coeliotomy, reduced surgical stress, more stable anesthesia, and reduced hospitalization periods.