endoscopes

Endoscopes are medical instruments designed to visualize the interior of the body and to allow treatment through small access routes. They typically consist of a shaft that can be flexible or rigid, a distal viewing tip, an illumination system, and one or more channels that permit irrigation, suction, biopsy, or the passage of therapeutic instruments. Modern devices often use digital cameras or high-resolution fiber optics and are controlled from a handle that directs bending sections at the distal tip.

There are several broad types of endoscopes. Flexible endoscopes, such as gastroscopes, colonoscopes, bronchoscopy scopes, and enteroscopes, are used to examine and treat the digestive and respiratory tracts. Rigid endoscopes, including cystoscopes and some arthroscopes, offer direct visualization through a fixed angle. Capsule endoscopy uses a swallowable video capsule to image the small intestine when traditional endoscopy is impractical. Some endoscopes, called endotherapy devices, integrate channels for performing procedures such as biopsy, polyp removal, stone extraction, stent placement, dilation, or laser therapy.

Applications span diagnostic and therapeutic domains across several specialties. In gastroenterology, endoscopy is used for surveillance and biopsy in the esophagus, stomach, and colon. In pulmonology and ENT, it supports airway and sinus assessments. Urology, gynecology, and orthopedic fields employ endoscopes for minimally invasive examination and intervention and for locating and treating pathology within ducts or joints.

History and safety are important aspects. Early endoscopes emerged in the 19th century, with significant advances in fiber optics and digital imaging in the mid-to-late 20th century. Reprocessing and sterilization to prevent infection are critical; endoscopes are typically subjected to high-level disinfection, with some settings using sterilization or single-use devices to reduce risk.