While lameness can result in poor performance, other body systems can also be implicated. The respiratory system is a common source of poor performance and our video endoscope allows detailed examination of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. Our range of endoscopes of different sizes also allows evaluation of other areas such as the stomach ( gastroscopy) and urinary tract. We also offer dynamic endoscopy, which allows visualisation of the horse’s upper respiratory tract during work. This allows diagnosis of disorders that may only become apparent during fast work, such as dorsal displacement of the soft palate.

Video endoscopy is an imaging modality used to visualise the internal aspects of the horse’s respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems which allows clinicians to accurately diagnose conditions within these systems. Some of the endoscopes we use can also take samples from tissues for further diagnostics if required. Chiltern Equine Clinic has both fibre optic and video endoscopes available.


Respiratory endoscopy enables clinicians to examine both the upper and lower respiratory tracts of horses in order to further investigate poor performance. Samples can also be taken from the trachea and lungs to investigate incidences of respiratory disease. Resting and dynamic respiratory endoscopy can be performed on the yard.


Over ground dynamic endoscopy allows examination of the upper respiratory tract of the horse whilst it is exercising in order to identify dynamic airway pathology. These are the abnormalities that result in a horse making a “noise” when exercising but cannot be identified when the horse is at rest. This endoscope can be attached to the horse’s bridle and sends real time images which can be visualised by the clinician as the horse is exercising. This dramatically cuts down the amount of time required to make a diagnosis.

Exercising the horse in their own tack and at their normal place of work eliminates the need to travel the horse to a diagnostic centre and integrates the examination into the horse’s normal routine. Clinicians can use the invaluable information to make an accurate diagnosis and create a treatment plan for your horse.