Videoendoscopy allows direct visualization of the upper airway, guttural
pouches, esophagus, bladder, and other areas of the body. It allows us
to evaluate these areas for the presence of disease, dysfunction, or
masses. Some surgical procedures can be performed endoscopically,
including endoscopic laser surgery. Many performance horses are prone to
problems involving the upper respiratory tract. Most of these upper
respiratory problems cause partial obstruction of the airway, leading to
inability of the horse to take in adequate oxygen during exercise. Most
of these problems can be corrected surgically.