SEER Training Modules
11/27/12 - The NCI is working on updating materials.
Endoscopic Examination
An endoscope is an instrument for examining the interior of a canal or hollow viscus (any large interior organ). A variety of endoscopes have been developed for direct inspection of the interior of the stomach, larynx, colon, rectum, bladder, esophagus, and portions of the lung. Listed below are the more common endoscopic* examinations:
Bronchoscopy
Examination of the bronchi
Colonoscopy
Examination of the colon and rectum by means of an elongated flexible fiberscope
Colposcopy
Examination of tissue of the cervix and vagina by use of a magnifying lens inserted into the vagina
Cystoscopy
Direct visual examination of the interior of the urinary bladder
Esophagoscopy
Observation of the interior of the esophagus
Gastroscopy
Inspection of the interior of the stomach
Laryngoscopy
Examination of the larynx
Nasopharyngoscopy
Examination of the nasopharynx, pharynx, and the pharyngeal end of the auditory tube by lighted telescopic endoscope
Ophthalmoscopy
An examination in which an instrument containing a perforated mirror and lenses is used to examine the interior of the eye
Otoscopy
Inspection of the internal ear
Panendoscopy
A cystoscopy that permits wide angle viewing of the urinary bladder
Proctoscopy
Inspection of the rectum
Sigmoidoscopy
Inspection of the colon up to sigmoid flexure
Vaginoscopy
See Colposcopy.
* Colposcopy and otoscopy may not involve use of endoscopes. They are included here because they are diagnostic manipulative procedures.
