endoscope

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endoscope

surgical imaging device

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July 16, 2026

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An endoscope is a medical instrument used for examining the interior of the body, typically through a natural opening or a small incision. These flexible, lighted tubes often incorporate camera or video technology to capture images of internal tissues.12

Endoscopes can be inserted through various body openings, such as the mouth for examining the esophagus and stomach, or the anus for inspecting the colon. Specialized endoscopes exist for different parts of the body, including the bladder and bronchial tubes. Modern fiber-optic endoscopes offer enhanced maneuverability and visualization.1

Beyond imaging, endoscopes can be equipped with accessories to perform procedures like taking tissue samples, removing polyps, or excising small tumors. This technology is central to minimally invasive surgery, allowing for internal examination and intervention with smaller incisions compared to traditional open surgery.123

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cancer
Diagnostic procedures
…the physician can use an endoscope to inspect the internal cavities and hollow viscera. An endoscope is a flexible optical instrument that makes it possible not only to observe the appearance of the internal linings but also to perform a biopsy, a procedure used to procure a tissue sample from…
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…the physician can use an endoscope to inspect the internal cavities and hollow viscera. An endoscope is a flexible optical instrument that makes it possible not only to observe the appearance of the internal linings but also to perform a biopsy, a procedure used to procure a tissue sample from…
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laparoscopy
…laparoscope is a type of endoscope—i.e., a device similar to a small telescope that is equipped with a light source. Laparoscopy came into use early in the 20th century. It was first used as a means of diagnosing abdominal pain. By the 1960s gynecologists were using the laparoscope in operations…
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…laparoscope is a type of endoscope—i.e., a device similar to a small telescope that is equipped with a light source. Laparoscopy came into use early in the 20th century. It was first used as a means of diagnosing abdominal pain. By the 1960s gynecologists were using the laparoscope in operations…
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nasopharyngolaryngoscopy
…that uses a flexible fibre-optic endoscope to visualize the structures inside the nasal passages, including the sinus openings, the larynx, and the vocal cords. The type of endoscope used for this procedure is called a nasopharyngolaryngoscope. This instrument enables a more thorough examination to be performed than is possible with…
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…that uses a flexible fibre-optic endoscope to visualize the structures inside the nasal passages, including the sinus openings, the larynx, and the vocal cords. The type of endoscope used for this procedure is called a nasopharyngolaryngoscope. This instrument enables a more thorough examination to be performed than is possible with…
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sigmoidoscopy
…that uses a flexible fibre-optic endoscope to examine the rectum and the terminal section of the large intestine, known as the sigmoid colon. Fifty percent of all lesions in the lower intestines occur specifically in the rectum and sigmoid colon; they can be detected and removed by using a flexible…
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…that uses a flexible fibre-optic endoscope to examine the rectum and the terminal section of the large intestine, known as the sigmoid colon. Fifty percent of all lesions in the lower intestines occur specifically in the rectum and sigmoid colon; they can be detected and removed by using a flexible…
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