Endoscopy

Also known as: upper endoscopy, lower endoscopy.

What is endoscopy?

An endoscope is a medical instrument that consists of a long, thin, flexible tube with a light and camera at the end of it. Endoscopy is the process of viewing a part of the body or performing a procedure using an endoscope.

What happens during the procedure? 

The endoscope is passed into the body through an opening (such as the throat or anus) or through a surgical incision. Then the endoscope is guided through the body to the body part that needs closer inspection or the surgical procedure to be performed.

Is any special preparation needed? 

Patients will typically need to avoid food, drink and certain medications before undergoing an endoscopy.

What are the risk factors? 

Bleeding, infection and a rupture or tear of a body part that comes in contact with the endoscope are all potential risks of the procedure.


Reviewed by: Carrie Firestone Baum, MD

This page was last updated on: December 09, 2022 11:52 AM

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