Endoscopy

Endoscopy, a method for examining hollow organs using optical illumination devices. These are usually introduced through natural openings, and only in thoracoscopy is an artificial opening made beforehand in the intercostal space with the help of a trocar. The instruments used for endoscopy consist of an illumination part (electric light bulb) and an optical part, which allows for clear viewing, and sometimes with some magnification, of the object being examined. In some instruments, there are channels through which additional parts are introduced for specific manipulations (ureteral catheters, forceps for removing foreign bodies, etc.). The main methods of endoscopy are bronchoscopy, esophago- and gastroscopy, proctoscopy, urethro- and cystoscopy, and thoracoscopy. Endoscopy is used not only for diagnostic but also for therapeutic purposes. The constant improvement of endoscopic instruments helps expand the range of their applications. Endovesical methods of examination and treatment have reached particular development in urology. The calibers of modern cystoscopes allow for examination of the bladder, catheterization of the ureters, and pyelography even in newborns (girls). Operative cystoscopes have to a large extent replaced certain bloody methods of treatment (electrocoagulation of bladder tumors, endovesical removal of ureteral stones, etc.) or replaced operations performed blindly (lithotripsy) with simpler and safer methods under visual control.