Dynamic Respiratory Endoscopy (DRS)

Some upper respiratory tract disorders in sport horses can only be reproduced and accurately diagnosed under exercise conditions, such as during training or competition. In these cases, Dynamic Respiratory Endoscopy (DRS) represents a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool, specifically developed to assess upper airway function during real athletic performance.

DRS involves the use of a portable endoscope that is fitted to the horse while it is exercising. The system is connected to a processor and recording unit, positioned under the saddle (or in the sulky for trotting horses), allowing both video recording and real-time wireless transmission of endoscopic images to a remote monitor.

Once the endoscope is secured, the horse can perform its usual training session, preferably at maximum intensity, in order to accurately reproduce the athletic conditions under which an upper airway disorder is suspected (e.g. final stretch in racehorses, flatwork with flexed neck in dressage horses).

Compared to treadmill-based dynamic endoscopy, DRS offers several significant advantages:

• the examination can be performed directly at the training facility, eliminating the need for transport
• no treadmill acclimation or training is required, reducing stress and potential risks for the horse
• the horse is evaluated under its normal working conditions, avoiding the influence of unfamiliar environments or altered exercise patterns

This allows for a more realistic, precise, and clinically relevant assessment of dynamic upper airway disorders.