Trans-Endoscopic ultrasonography of the oesophagus and gastrointestinal tract in dogs and cats: Pathological findings

This study aimed to report our experience in clinical application of Trans-Endoscopic Ultrasound (TEUS) to the gastrointestinal tract. TEUS was performed on 9 dogs and 2 cats, using a 2.6 mm 12-20 MHz-mini-probe, introduced through the operative channel of a 9.7-mm-flexible endoscope. The ultrasonographic probe had 360° vision around the transducer (radial probe). TEUS examinations were well tolerated by all animals. Experience and practice reduced the time required for examination (on the average 45 min) for a complete endoscopic and TEUS examination. Out of 11 animals, two had esophageal stenosis, two showed gastric carcinoma, two had duodenitis, two exhibited rectal polyposis, one had lymphoma and ileocecal intussusception, one had rectal adenocarcinoma and one showed chronic gastritis. Thus, combination of ultrasound and endoscopy allowed intrinsic limits of both techniques to be overcome, enabling a complete diagnostic protocol and/or a minimally invasive surgical procedure. In malignant neoplasia, TEUS provided prognostic information for TNM grading.