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Gastroscopy

The Equine Medical Center was one of the first equine hospitals in the United States to use video endoscopy as a diagnostic tool for detecting abnormalities inside the stomach, including irritation, ulceration, cancerous masses, and trauma.

Our experts use 3-meter high-definition video endoscopes that provide ultra-sharp visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and proximal duodenum (beginning of the small intestine). This state-of-the-art technology provides optimal quality for thorough examinations.

Equine gastric ulceration research

  • In addition to pioneering gastroscopy techniques and conducting research to characterize the equine stomach, our faculty researchers have performed extensive research into the causes of equine gastric ulceration and participated in the development and testing of GastroGard®, the leading treatment for equine gastric ulcers. Knowing whether gastric ulcers are affecting your horse is important for maintaining optimal performance and for decreasing the risk of colic.

Gastroscopy exams

Gastroscopy appointments are scheduled with the medicine service and generally take place in the morning. The exam typically takes 15-30 minutes. Horses receive mild sedation that lasts the duration of the exam.

Pre-admission care

  • The horse must be fasted. Nothing solid can be eaten — hay, grain, pasture, etc. — after midnight of the night prior to the appointment.
  • Water is allowed up until two hours prior to the exam.
  • Ensure that your horse will not eat its bedding — sometimes a muzzle works best — and that a hay net is not in your trailer.
  • Your horse can be dropped off the night before the exam so that fasting can take place at the hospital. An overnight stay will incur an additional charge.

Appointments and referrals: 703-771-6800

To schedule an appointment, refer a patient, or inquire about our clinical services, please call 703-771-6800 or email emcinfo@vt.edu.