Evaluation of an endoscopic liver biopsy technique in green iguanas.
OBJECTIVE
To establish a safe and effective endoscopic technique for collection of liver biopsy specimens from lizards by use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope system that is commonly available in zoologic veterinary practice.


METHODS
Prospective study.


METHODS
11 subadult male green iguanas (Iguana iguana).


METHODS
Each lizard was anesthetized, and right-sided coelioscopic examination of the right liver lobe and gallbladder was performed. Three liver biopsy specimens were collected from each lizard by use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope and 1.7-mm (5-F) biopsy forceps. Biopsy samples were evaluated histologically for quality and crush artifact. Ten days following surgery, all iguanas were euthanatized and underwent full necropsy examination.


RESULTS
For all 11 iguanas, the right liver lobe and gallbladder were successfully examined endoscopically, and 3 biopsy specimens of the liver were collected without complications. Mean +/- SD durations of anesthesia and surgery were 24 +/- 7 minutes and 6.8 +/- 1.0 minutes, respectively. At necropsy, there was no evidence of trauma or disease associated with the skin or muscle entry sites, liver, or any visceral structures in any iguana. All 33 biopsy specimens were considered acceptable for histologic interpretation; in most samples, the extent of crush artifact was considered minimal.


CONCLUSIONS
By use of a 2.7-mm rigid endoscope, liver biopsy procedures can be performed safely, swiftly, and easily in green iguanas. Biopsy specimens obtained by this technique are suitable for histologic examination. For evaluation of the liver and biopsy specimen collection in lizards, endoscopy is recommended.
Hernandez-Divers
Stephen J
SJ
Department of Small Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
Stahl
Scott J
SJ
McBride
Michael
M
Stedman
Nancy L
NL
D000818:Animals; D001706:Biopsy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary*; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary*; D005704:Gallbladder / Q000473:pathology*; D007076:Iguanas / Q000601:surgery*; D007150:Immunohistochemistry / Q000662:veterinary; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D011446:Prospective Studies