Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that uses an endoscope—a flexible or rigid tube with a light source and camera—to visualize the interior surfaces of hollow organs and body cavities. It is widely used to examine the gastrointestinal tract, airways, urinary tract, and reproductive organs, and to perform minimally invasive therapeutic interventions under direct visualization. Procedures are typically performed by physicians such as gastroenterologists, pulmonologists, urologists, and gynecologists.

Common forms include gastroscopy and colonoscopy for the gastrointestinal tract, bronchoscopy for the airways, cystoscopy for the bladder and urethra, and hysteroscopy for the uterine cavity. Endoscopy also enables minimally invasive surgery, such as laparoscopy and arthroscopy, where a camera guides instruments through small incisions.

Endoscopes vary in rigidity. Flexible video endoscopes are most common today. They combine a camera or image guide, a light source, and one or more channels to pass instruments, suction, or irrigation. Images are usually displayed on external monitors for real-time visualization.

Indications include diagnosis and management: visual inspection, biopsy, imaging, lesion assessment, and therapeutic interventions such as polypectomy, dilation, stent placement, foreign-body removal, and laser or instrument-assisted therapy. Preparation may include fasting and bowel cleansing for colonoscopy, with sedation or anesthesia as appropriate.

Risks include perforation, bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to sedatives or anesthesia, and, rarely, cardiopulmonary complications. Most endoscopic procedures are safe when performed by trained professionals under proper monitoring. Absolute contraindications are uncommon but may include certain unstable conditions or conditions that preclude safe sedation.

Outcomes: Endoscopy provides direct visualization, tissue sampling, and treatment with minimal invasiveness, often avoiding open surgery. Training and certification requirements vary by country but typically involve specialty residency or fellowship training, instruction in sterile technique, patient monitoring, and adherence to safety guidelines.