Endoscopy

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Endoscopy allows your doctor to visualize various areas inside your body using an endoscope: a thin, flexible tube fitted with a camera. A number of endoscopic procedures are used to examine various parts of the body or treat certain conditions, such as:

• Arthroscopy visualizes inside the joints
• Bronchoscopy examines the airways and lungs
• Colonoscopy looks at the large intestine and rectum
• Cystoscopy views the inside of the bladder
• Enteroscopy studies the small intestine (small bowel)
• Laparoscopy explores the abdomen or pelvis
• Sigmoidoscopy assesses the lower part of the colon
• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy investigates the esophagus and stomach

During the exam, an endoscope is either passed through a natural opening in the body (such as the mouth or anus) or your doctor may make a small incision (such as in the pelvic or abdominal area) in the case of a laparoscopic exam.

Endoscopy can also be used to perform a biopsy or remove tissue. The endoscope can be fitted with various devices such as lasers, ultrasound devices or tiny surgical instruments. A mild sedative is used during most endoscopic procedures.