Ulcer Scoping
What is Involved & When is it Recommended
Gastroscopy is the most reliable way to examine a horse’s stomach and oesophagus. Using a 3-metre flexible high-definition endoscope, our internal medicine team passes the camera through the horse’s nostril, down the oesophagus, and into the stomach to visualise all regions, including the proximal duodenum. Horses must be fasted for 12–16 hours prior to the procedure.
Gastroscopy is recommended for horses showing signs such as weight loss, poor appetite, decreased performance, dull coat, mild or recurrent colic, discomfort on girth tightening, or behavioural changes. While gastric ulcers are the most common condition identified, gastroscopy can also detect gastric impactions, parasites, masses, oesophageal strictures, trauma, and other abnormalities.
Understanding Ulcer Types
Gastric ulcers in horses can occur in two main regions: the squamous (non-glandular) mucosa, commonly referred to as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS), and the glandular mucosa, known as Glandular Gastric Disease (GGD). Squamous ulcers often develop due to exercise, stress, fasting, or diet, while glandular ulcers may be more resistant to standard treatment and can require additional medications or management strategies. Because each ulcer type may need a different treatment approach, gastroscopy is essential for accurate diagnosis and planning an effective therapy.
Scoping Week – One Visit Can Make All The Difference
At Willinga Park Equine Vet Hospital, we believe specialist care should be accessible to all horse owners. That’s why our monthly Scoping Week special offers more than just a look inside the stomach — it includes a full specialist consultation, gastroscopy, and sedation for $200 + gst. This provides the perfect opportunity to discuss any concerns with our internal medicine and surgery specialists and develop a tailored treatment plan. Whether your horse has cough, nasal discharge, masses, tying up, back pain, or skin issues, our team is here to provide clarity and expert guidance. Please allow approximately one hour for your appointment.
Have a case to discuss or need details about our services?
