Have you ever wondered how doctors can look inside your body without making big cuts? The answer is Endoscopy. But what is the meaning of Endoscopy? Endoscopy lets doctors view organs like the stomach, lungs or colon using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. The tool helps spot health issues early and sometimes treat them immediately, all with less discomfort. In this blog, we shall see what endoscopic surgery is, why it is useful, the purpose of endoscopy, its benefits, uses and its types.
What is Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is a medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the body’s internal organs or cavities with a small and flexible tube called an endoscope. This tube has a tiny camera and light at the tip that sends real-time images to the screen. This helps doctors detect and diagnose health problems inside organs like the stomach, lungs or bladder.
Unlike traditional surgeries, Endoscopy is less invasive, meaning it doesn't require larger cuts or longer recovery time. The endoscope is inserted through natural openings such as the mouth, nose, or anus, or through small incisions depending on the area being examined.
How is the Endoscopy Test Done?
Before the procedure, you might receive a mild sedative to keep you relaxed. The type of Endoscopy determines where the doctor will insert the endoscope. For example, a gastroscopy involves inserting a tube through the mouth to examine the oesophagus and stomach, while a colonoscopy involves inserting the scope through the anus to view the colon.
The doctor guides the Endoscopy device to the targeted area while watching the images on the monitor. Some endoscopes have channels for smaller tools, allowing doctors to remove polyps or take tissue samples without additional surgery. Most procedures take 15 to 60 minutes. Afterward, patients are observed briefly and can usually go home the same day.
Types of Endoscopy
Gastroscopy
Examines the oesophagus, stomach and upper digestive tract through a scope inserted in the mouth. It detects ulcers, inflammation and tumours. A gastroenterologist performs this procedure.
Colonoscopy
Inspects the colon and rectum through the anus. It is important for detecting colon cancer and investigating bleeding. This is done by gastroenterologists or proctologists.
Bronchoscopy
Visualises the lungs and airways via the nose or mouth. It diagnoses lung infections, blockages, or tumours. Pulmonologists or thoracic surgeons perform this procedure.
Cystoscopy
Checks the bladder by inserting a scope through the urethra. It detects infections, stones or tumours in the urinary tract. Urologists perform this procedure.
Laparoscopy
Involves small incisions in the abdomen or pelvis to examine internal organs directly. It is used for diagnosis or surgery, including removing cysts. Performed by surgeons, general doctors or gynaecologists.
Sigmoidoscopy
Examines the rectum and lower colon through a scope inserted via the anus. It checks for inflammation, polyps and tumours. Performed by gastroenterologists or proctologists.
Hysteroscopy
Inspects the inside of the uterus using a scope inserted through the vagina. It investigates abnormal bleeding or uterine abnormalities. Conducted by gynaecologists.
Mediastinoscopy
Examines the space between the lungs via a small incision above the breastbone. This helps detect diseases concentrated in the chest area. Thoracic surgeons perform this procedure.
Ureteroscopy
Uses a scope inserted through the urethra to examine the ureters. It is used to detect stones or tumours in the urinary tract. Urologists conduct this procedure.
Laryngoscopy
Examines the larynx (voice box) through the mouth or nose. It is used to diagnose voice problems, infections and growths. ENT specialists perform this test.
Uses of Endoscopy
Endoscopy helps doctors find the cause behind symptoms such as stomach pain, bleeding, difficulty swallowing and unexpected weight loss. It is used to:
- Look for inflammation, ulcers and tumours.
- Remove polyps.
- Clear blockages in ducts and tubes inside the body.
- Support diagnosis along with tools like an Edan ECG machine.
Benefits of Endoscopy
Accurate Diagnosis
Direct visualisation helps detect disease early, including cancer. Doctors can also take tissue samples (biopsies) for accurate diagnosis.
Less Invasive
Endoscopy avoids large cuts, reduces pain and bleeding, and allows faster recovery with shorter hospital stays.
Treatment During Diagnosis
Doctors can remove polyps, stop bleeding or take biopsies during the procedure—reducing the need for multiple treatments.
Quick Process
Most endoscopies take just 15–60 minutes with minimal preparation and recovery time.
Safe
Endoscopy has a low risk of complications when performed using reliable equipment from a trusted medical supply store.
FAQs
What is the purpose of conducting an Endoscopy?
Endoscopy examines internal organs and diagnoses inflammation, ulcers, tumours and bleeding. It can also treat certain problems without major surgery.
What is the time taken for Endoscopy?
Most procedures take 15 to 60 minutes and are done under sedation or local anaesthesia. Patients can go home the same day.
Are there side effects of Endoscopy?
Endoscopy is generally safe. Some may experience mild sore throat, bloating or cramps. Serious complications are rare.
When is an Endoscopy done?
An Endoscopy is recommended for symptoms like abdominal pain, persistent heartburn, bleeding, difficulty swallowing and unexplained nausea. It is also used to detect digestive diseases and cancers.