Canine Upper GI Endoscopy Workshop

The GI Endoscopy Workshop is an introductory experience for performing GI endoscopy in dogs. Basic maneuvering techniques will be learned and practiced. By the end of the workshop participants will be proficient in examining the esophagus and stomach, identifying the pylorus, and depending on skill level, traversing the pylorus to the intestine. The course is designed for beginners and for veterinarians who have done limited amounts of endoscopy and who want to sharpen their skills and learn how to avoid bad operating habits. The workshop includes a 40-minute overview discussion of exible endoscope components and technique for handling and maneuvering an endoscope in the GI tract. The overview is followed by 3 hours of hands-on endoscopy training accomplished through scoping anesthetized dogs. Each group of 3 veterinarians will work together under the guidance of highly experienced instructors (2 groups per instructor). Each group will perform upper GI endoscopy (examination of the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine) on 4 different dogs during the course of the workshop. Emphasis will be on technique that will help clinicians perform procedures eciently on dierent breeds of dogs. The last 20 minutes of the workshop will include an endoscope post procedure care and cleaning demo. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Learn the components of an endoscope for tip deflection, air insuation, water ushing, suctioning, and passing operating instruments (biopsy instruments, foreign body graspers). 
2. Learn the proper technique for holding an endoscope and operating the tip deflection control knobs. 
3. Learn the proper technique for advancing an endoscope along the esophagus, traversing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to enter the stomach, identifying key structures in the stomach, and finding and traversing the pylorus. 
4. Learn endoscope care and cleaning techniques.