The endoscope itself is a thin, flexible tube with fiberoptic light source and a tiny video camera on the tip. In addition to cameras, endoscopes have at least one channel through which tiny tools can be passed. These tools can be used to biopsy an area, control bleeding, remove polyps, stretch narrowed areas and many other therapies.
Common endoscopic procedures include upper GI endoscopy (sometimes referred to as an EGD, which stands for esophagogastroduodenoscopy) and colonoscopy.
In an upper GI endoscopy, the doctor can examine the esophagus, the stomach, and about 3/4 of the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine).
In a colonoscopy, the doctor examines the inside of the rectum and the large intestine (the colon).
Endoscopes can also be inserted through a small incision during surgery. Arthroscopy and laparoscopy are examples of surgical procedures that involve endoscopes.
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