Application of flexible endoscopy for gastrointestinal foreign body removal in a leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius)

Abstract

A male captive-bred leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius) presented with a history of inadvertent ingestion of a rubber tip from forceps during feeding. The foreign body was impalpable on physical examination, while radiographic evaluation confirmed its presence in the stomach. Considering the procedural risks associated with invasive surgical interventions, endoscopic retrieval under general anesthesia was pursued. An initial attempt using a 2.8 mm superfine flexible endoscope with 0.8 mm forceps was unsuccessful due to insufficient stability, which hindered effective navigation to the foreign body. In contrast, a second attempt using a larger 9.2 mm flexible endoscope with 2.3 mm forceps improved visualization and mechanical control, allowing for successful removal. Despite concerns about the potential adverse effects of introducing a relatively large-diameter instrument into the small-bodied patient, gastric mucosal inspection revealed no abnormalities, and the patient experienced an uneventful recovery. This case report describes the application of two flexible endoscope models for the retrieval of a gastrointestinal foreign body in a leopard gecko, an approach rarely documented in the literature. Given the limitation of a single case, larger case series and comparative studies are warranted to validate the safety, reproducibility, and clinical applicability of flexible endoscopy as a viable option. The establishment of evidence-based guidelines will facilitate safer and more tailored applications, ultimately advancing minimally invasive techniques in reptile medicine.