Part I (Chapters 1 and 2) is designed to acquaint the reader with endoscopic basics. Included are indications, complications, and equipment requirements. It is important to understand basic endoscopic anatomy as well as the types of biopsy forceps and accessory instruments required before beginning an endoscopic procedure. These chapters include recommendations for endoscopic techniques and methods of sample collection.
Part II (Chapters 3 and 4) expands the descriptions of endoscopic findings and supports them with case studies. Chapter 3 is divided into anatomic sections corresponding to those of the gastrointestinal tract. Each of these sections describes the expected normal findings and specific techniques required for examination of that section of the gastrointestinal tract. Also included are numerous examples of endoscopic abnormalities for each anatomic section. Chapter 4 comprises case studies that demonstrate the importance of endoscopy in the diagnosis or therapy of gastrointestinal disorders. Studying these cases can reinforce the reader's understanding of gastrointestinal disease, including when to incorporate endoscopy as a diagnostic tool.
Part III contains an Index of Figures that describes all of the endoscopic images and other photographs presented in this handbook. In addition, a Glossary of Terms highlights useful definitions, as they relate to gastrointestinal endoscopy. The Suggested Reading section lists additional resources that cover topics in small animal gastrointestinal endoscopy, including references on basic endoscopy as well as articles that describe the disease syndromes presented in Part II.
