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by Dr John Wilcox, VetMed Forestville, NSW
This endoscope is used for surgery and examining body cavities such as the nose and bladder. Our primary use is for laparoscopic desexing of female dogs.
What’s good about it
It’s a very useful piece of equipment and something that I find I’m using more and more. It can be used for a wide variety of procedures including assisted castropexies, cystotomies, cryptorchid castrations, and liver biopsies. It’s also handy for nasal scopes and cystoscope examinations of the bladder. It allows for desexing with smaller incisions, reduced pain and a much better recovery for the dogs. I use this endoscope frequently, at least three or four times a week.
The rigid laparoscope is attached to a screen that shows all parts of the abdomen with significant magnification. Whatever procedure is being undertaken is made easier by being clearly visible on the screen. It takes a little time to become accustomed to looking at the screen while your hands are manipulating something in a different orientation. If you have a history of playing video games, you could probably reap the rewards of a misspent youth!
I really like Karl Storz equipment. They’ve given us good support and have been able to supply us with everything we’ve needed. They are proactive in supplying help and feedback when we’ve had any issues.
What’s not so good
A degree of care must be utilised with this type of equipment. All the staff need proper training so they understand how to use the equipment. It’s quite expensive and can be damaged easily if used improperly.
