endoscopy

What is endoscopy? What is an endoscope? An endoscopy involves examining the inside of a person's body using an endoscope. An endoscope is a medical device consisting of a long, thin, flexible (or rigid) tube which has a light and a video camera. Images of the inside of the patient's body can be seen on a screen. The whole endoscopy is recorded so that doctors can check it again. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic medical procedure. It is used to examine the interior surfaces of an organ or tissue. The endoscope can also be used for enabling biopsies and retrieving foreign objects. Endoscopy is a noninvasive alternative to surgery for foreign object removal from the gastrointestinal tract. When is an endoscopy used? To confirm a diagnosis An endoscopy is often used to confirm a diagnosis when other devices, such as an MRI, X-ray, or CT scan are considered inappropriate. An endoscopy is often carried out to find out the degree of problems a known condition may have caused. The endoscopy, in these cases, may significantly contribute towards the doctor's decision on the best treatment for the patient. The following conditions and illnesses are most commonly investigated or diagnosed with an endoscopy:  Breathing disorders  Chronic diarrhea  Incontinence  Internal bleeding  Irritable bowel syndrome  Stomach ulcers  Urinary tract infections. Medicalnewstoday.com