This procedure is used to look inside the body to examine the digestive system. It is used to diagnose and sometimes treat digestive system diseases and conditions. The test is sometimes combined with other procedures to guide the gastroenterologist and create images of the digestive organs.
Reaching a diagnosis through endoscopy requires a thorough and accurate medical history and physical examination. Some patients may need to undergo more extensive diagnostic evaluations, including lab tests, and imaging techniques. Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the physician or surgeon to accurately diagnose - and often treat - conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, and colon.