endoskop

An endoskop, also known as an endoscope, is a medical instrument used to view the interior of hollow organs and cavities of the body. It comprises a slender insertion tube, an optical or video imaging system, and illumination. Many endoscopes include one or more channels that allow instruments to pass through for biopsy, aspiration, irrigation, or therapeutic interventions.

Endoscopes are designed as rigid or flexible. Rigid endoscopes provide straight access and high image resolution for certain tasks; flexible endoscopes bend to follow natural passages such as the esophagus, airways, and intestines. Modern devices often use a digital camera at the tip with a light source, transmitting images to a monitor, while older systems used a direct eyepiece.

Common medical applications include gastroenterology (gastroscopy, colonoscopy), pulmonology (bronchoscopy), urology (cystoscopy), gynecology (hysteroscopy), ENT (nasal or sinus endoscopy), and arthroscopy for joints. Endoscopes enable diagnosis, biopsy, and minimally invasive treatments such as polyp removal, tissue sampling, laser therapy, and dilation.

History and safety: The concept dates to the 19th century with early instruments; modern endoscopy advanced with fiber optic and video technologies from the mid to late 20th century. Sterilization and instrument design reduce infection risk; many endoscopes are reusable after proper cleaning and disinfection, while some are designed for single use.

Non-medical uses include industrial inspection (borescopes) and veterinary endoscopy.