Endoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure used to examine the internal organs. The device used, called an endoscope, transmits real-time images to a monitor, helping doctors detect abnormalities, take biopsies, or even perform minor treatments.

Types of Endoscopy

Depending on the area being examined, endoscopy can take different forms:

• Gastroscopy – to examine the esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine
• Colonoscopy – to check the colon and rectum
• Bronchoscopy – to view the airways and lungs
• Cystoscopy – to look inside the bladder

Laparoscopy – to view abdominal or pelvic organs

Doctors recommend endoscopy for several reasons, including:

• Investigating symptoms such as abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or rectal bleeding
• Detecting conditions like ulcers, tumors, or inflammation
• Screening for cancers (e.g., colon cancer)
• Performing biopsies for further lab testing
• Treating certain conditions, such as removing polyps or stopping bleeding

👉 For example: Colonoscopy has been proven to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by up to 68% when used regularly for screening.

Before the Procedure

• You may be asked to fast for 6–12 hours
• For colonoscopy, a bowel preparation (laxative solution) is required
• Medications may need to be adjusted, especially blood thinners

During the Procedure

• The doctor inserts the endoscope through the mouth, rectum, or a small incision, depending on the type
• You may receive sedation or anesthesia for comfort
• The process usually takes 15–45 minutes
• 
  

After the Procedure

• Recovery is quick, though you may feel bloated or slightly drowsy
• Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours
• If a biopsy is taken, results usually arrive within a few days

• Minimally invasive compared to open surgery
• Quick recovery time for patients
• Accurate diagnosis with real-time visuals
• Early detection of diseases, especially cancers
• Safe and effective, with very low complication rates