Endoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to look inside a person's body using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the end. This tube, known as an endoscope, is designed to capture high-quality images and transmit them to a screen for the doctor to view.
There are several types of endoscopes, each designed for a specific part of the body. Some common types of endoscopes include:
Gastrointestinal Endoscopes: These are used to examine the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Examples of gastrointestinal endoscopes include upper endoscopes (also called esophagogastroduodenoscopes or EGDs), colonoscopes, and sigmoidoscopes.
Bronchoscopes: These are used to examine the air passages in the lungs and are commonly used to diagnose and treat lung conditions.
Cystoscopes: These are used to examine the bladder and urinary tract and are often used to diagnose and treat conditions such as bladder cancer or urinary tract infections.
Hysteroscopes: These are used to examine the inside of the uterus and are commonly used to diagnose and treat conditions such as uterine fibroids or abnormal bleeding.
Arthroscopes: These are used to examine the inside of joints, such as the knee or shoulder, and are often used to diagnose and treat conditions such as arthritis or torn ligaments.
Overall, endoscopes are essential devices used by doctors to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions.