Endoscopy is an exploratory examination of the internal organs with the aid of an endoscope, which is inserted through natural body openings. An endoscope is a flexible tube and has a small light and a camera at the end, allowing the examination to be followed on a monitor.
There are various types of endoscopy:
- Colonoscopy: examination of the large intestine.
- Colposcopy: examination of the cervix.
- Cystoscopy: examination of the urethra and the bladder.
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): examination of the bile ducts and the pancreatic duct.
- Gastroscopy: examination of the esophagus, the stomach and the first part of the small intestine (duodenum).
- Laparoscopy: examination of the abdominal cavity and the organs therein.
- Proctoscopy: examination of the rectum and the anus.
- Sigmoidoscopy: examination of the beginning of the rectum and the last part of the colon.
- Sleep endoscopy: examination of the upper airway during sleep.