hepatoscopy

Hepatoscopy is a medical term referring to the visualization of the liver using an endoscope or similar viewing instrument. Historically, hepatoscopy encompassed direct inspection of the liver surface and surrounding structures, often during open or peritoneoscopic surgery. In modern usage, the term is largely historical or regional, and contemporary hepatology relies more on imaging and targeted endoscopic techniques, with direct visual assessment of the liver being less common outside surgical settings.

Techniques and scope

Hepatoscopy has been performed in various forms, including intraoperative inspection during abdominal surgery and exploratory peritoneoscopy with a hepatoscope. In some contexts, the term also appears in reference to cholangioscopy or endoscopic visualization of the biliary tree when assessment of liver-related anatomy is required. Today, direct hepatic visualization is mainly encountered in operative environments or specialized research contexts, while routine evaluation of liver disease relies on noninvasive imaging (ultrasound, CT, MRI) and percutaneous or transjugular biopsy as needed.

Indications

Historically, hepatoscopy aimed to assess liver parenchyma, detect focal lesions, evaluate cirrhotic changes, or aid in surgical planning. In current practice, direct visualization of the liver is infrequent outside surgery, with imaging and endoscopic approaches providing broader, safer assessment.

Limitations and risks

Direct hepatoscopic visualization carries risks associated with surgical or endoscopic procedures, including anesthesia-related complications, bleeding, infection, injury to adjacent organs, and bile leakage. Its diagnostic yield is largely superseded by modern imaging modalities and biopsy techniques.

See also

Endoscopy, Laparoscopy, Cholangioscopy, Liver biopsy, Hepatic imaging.