Ureteral Endoscopy to Detect Upper Urinary Tract Diseases in Horses.
Authors: Busechian Sara, Marchesi Maria Chiara, Vuerich Matteo, Corsalini Jacopo, Nannarone Sara, Arcelli Rolando, Ortolani Flaminia, Rueca Fabrizio, Gialletti Rodolfo
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Ureteral Endoscopy in Horses: A Practical Diagnostic Advancement Whilst ureteral endoscopy is commonplace in human medicine, its application in equine practice remains largely unexplored, limiting diagnostic options for upper urinary tract disease. Researchers in Italy demonstrated the feasibility of flexible endoscopic examination of the ureters in four standing horses (three mares and one gelding) using alpha-2 agonist sedation combined with epidural anaesthesia. The procedure proved straightforward to perform without adverse effects, successfully visualising both the ureters and lower urinary tract in all cases. For equine professionals managing cases of renal calculi, ureteral obstruction, or suspected upper urinary tract pathology, this technique offers a genuine diagnostic advantage where ultrasound and radiography have proven inconclusive—enabling direct visualisation rather than reliance on indirect imaging. Given the procedure's safety profile and informational yield, incorporation of ureteral endoscopy into the diagnostic toolkit for equine urinary disease warrants serious consideration, particularly in referral settings where specialist equipment and expertise become available.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Ureteral endoscopy is a viable diagnostic tool for standing horses with suspected upper urinary tract disease, performed safely with standard sedation and epidural anaesthesia protocols
- •This minimally invasive technique can improve diagnostic accuracy and case management for equine urinary conditions without causing animal welfare concerns
- •Consider referral for ureteral endoscopy when upper urinary tract disease is suspected but imaging findings are inconclusive
Key Findings
- •Ureteral endoscopy was successfully performed on 4 horses (3 mares, 1 gelding) using flexible endoscopes under standing sedation with alpha-2-agonists and epidural anaesthesia
- •The procedure caused no adverse effects in any of the animals treated
- •Ureteral endoscopy provides diagnostic and prognostic information for equine urinary tract diseases