Endoscopy

Examination of a body cavity for diagnosis or treatment by means of an endoscope. Endoscopy makes use of both fibre-optics and video technology, and enables almost any hollow structure in the body to be inspected directly. The endoscope is inserted through a natural body opening, such as the mouth or vagina, or into a small incision. The operator can inspect and photograph the organ and carry out a biopsy. Many operations can be performed by passing surgical instruments down an endoscope. (See also minimally invasive surgery.)