Airway Scope

Airway scoping is a valuable diagnostic tool used to evaluate the upper and lower respiratory tract of the horse. Using a flexible endoscope, our veterinarians can visualize the trachea, bronchi, and guttural pouches to identify issues such as inflammation, mucus accumulation, structural abnormalities, or evidence of infection. This quick, minimally invasive procedure provides immediate insights into your horse’s breathing and performance concerns—whether related to coughing, poor stamina, or unexplained respiratory noise.

A bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) may also be performed during the procedure to collect fluid samples from deep within the lungs. This allows for microscopic and cytologic evaluation, helping to identify inflammatory airway disease, allergies, infection, or other respiratory conditions. Together, airway scoping and BAL testing give a fuller picture of your horse’s respiratory health, guiding accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment to help your horse breathe easier and perform their best.