Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a medical procedure that involves the use of an endoscope, a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light source and a camera, to visualize and examine the inside of various parts of the body. This minimally invasive technique allows doctors to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions without the need for large surgical incisions.

Endoscopy can be performed through natural body openings (such as the mouth, nose, anus, or urethra) or through small incisions (ports) made in the body. The specific type of endoscopy performed depends on the area of the body being examined or treated. Here are some common types of endoscopy:

• Gastrointestinal Endoscopy:

  • Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD): Involves inserting the endoscope through the mouth to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine.

  • Colonoscopy: Involves inserting the endoscope through the anus to examine the rectum and colon (large intestine).

  • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Used to visualize the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts, often to diagnose and treat conditions such as gallstones or pancreatitis.

• Respiratory Endoscopy:

  • Bronchoscopy: Involves inserting the endoscope through the mouth or nose to examine the airways and lungs. It's used to diagnose lung conditions, retrieve samples for biopsy, and remove foreign objects.

• Urological Endoscopy:

  • Cystoscopy: Involves inserting the endoscope through the urethra to visualize the bladder. It's used to diagnose and treat urinary tract issues.

  • Ureteroscopy: Used to examine and treat issues in the ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder) and kidneys.

• Gynecological Endoscopy:

  • Laparoscopy: Involves making small incisions and inserting the endoscope to visualize and operate on the reproductive organs and pelvic area.

  • Hysteroscopy: Used to examine the inside of the uterus, often to diagnose and treat issues like abnormal bleeding or polyps.

• Orthopedic Endoscopy:

  • Arthroscopy: Used to visualize and treat joint conditions, commonly performed on joints like the knee, shoulder and hip.

• Neurological Endoscopy:

  • Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): A procedure used to treat hydrocephalus by creating an opening in the third ventricle of the brain to allow cerebrospinal fluid to flow.

Endoscopy offers several advantages, including shorter recovery times, reduced risk of complications, and the ability to perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures without major surgery. The images and videos captured by the endoscope provide valuable insights for medical professionals to make accurate diagnoses and guide treatments.