What is Endoscopic Surgery?
Endoscopic surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery using a tool called an endoscope, a kind of thin, hollow tube. The endoscope contains optical fibers that transmit light and images, so a doctor can see through it. It can be inserted through a small incision or into an opening in the body (such as the mouth, nose, or anus). The endoscope allows a physician access to see and perform procedures on the inside of the body without needing to make a large incision. Once the endoscope is moved inside the body, the physician can use it to examine the area. Then very small tools can be moved through the tube of the endoscope and used to perform the surgery. Miniature forceps can take a biopsy or remove a growth, place and take out stitches, or collect cell samples. Endoscopic surgery can be used for many different procedures including sinus surgery, kidney stone removal and certain biopsies. It can even be used for brain surgery. Because endoscopic surgery requires either a very tiny incision or none at all, there is very little scarring and a much easier recovery than with full open surgery.Search for endoscopic surgery near you.