Evaluation of diagnostic coelioscopy including liver and kidney biopsies in cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus)

Abstract

Diagnostic coelioscopy, including liver and kidney biopsies, was performed in seven cinereous vultures (Aegypius monachus). A 5-mm endoscopy system was used for examination of coelomic viscera. The endoscopist rated the ease of entry into the coelom and visualisation. Coelioscopic biopsy was performed using a 5-mm biopsy forceps following the diagnostic coelioscopy, and the diagnostic quality of the samples was evaluated. The endoscopic entry and visualisation scores ranged from satisfactory to excellent for all coelomic structures, except for the oesophagus, spleen, epididymis/oviduct and pancreas in all vultures. The coelioscopic examinations of coelomic structures and biopsy samples were carried out safely and easily. The biopsy samples were suitable for histopathological examination. Thus, minimally invasive coelioscopy using a 5-mm endoscopy system can be considered a useful technique suitable for visceral examination of large raptors such as cinereous vultures.