[Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy in swine--technique, methods, indications].

The aim of this study was to investigate in 20 healthy pigs the practicability of the oesophagogastroduodenoscopic examination technique in regard to equipment, method of examination, indications and its suitability as a diagnostical tool for the assessment of the oesophagus, stomach and upper duodenum in one procedure. Preparation of the patient for endoscopy, the procedure of the endoscopic examination as well as the topographical findings of the upper intestinal tract including the duodenum until the flexura duodenojejunalis are described. Flexible oesophagogastroduodenoscopy is a suitable method for the observation and natural visualisation of mucosal surfaces and for the digital documentation of peristaltic movements. The procedure is easy to perform in anaesthetized animals, is in most cases completed within 15 min, and can be repeated in the same animal. Indications of this interesting diagnostic imaging technique are discussed.