Looking inside hollow organs no longer always requires an incision. Endoscopy is a procedure in which a flexible or rigid tube with a camera and light is introduced into the body to inspect internal surfaces and, when needed, to take samples or perform treatment.

Gastrointestinal endoscopy examines the esophagus, stomach, colon, and related structures. Bronchoscopy inspects the airways; cystoscopy the bladder; other variants reach joints or the abdominal cavity. Sedation or anesthesia improves comfort. Therapeutic endoscopes can stop bleeding, remove polyps, or place stents.

Risks include perforation, bleeding, and sedation-related complications, all uncommon in experienced hands. Preparation, informed consent, and appropriate surveillance intervals after findings are standard parts of care. Endoscopy has replaced many exploratory operations.

• Camera-based inspection of internal organs
• Used for diagnosis, biopsy, and therapy
• Performed under sedation or anesthesia
• Lower risk than open surgery for many indications