Endoscopies fall into categories, based on the area of the body that they investigate. The American Cancer Society (ACS) lists the following types of endoscopies:
• Arthroscopy is used to examine your joints. The scope is inserted through a small incision near the joint being examined.
• Bronchoscopy is used to examine your lungs. The scope is inserted into your nose or mouth.
• Colonoscopy is used to examine your colon. The scope is inserted through your anus.
• Cystoscopy is used to examine your bladder. The scope is inserted through your urethra, which is the hole through which you urinate.
• Enteroscopy is used to examine your small intestine. The scope is inserted through your mouth or anus.
• Hysteroscopy is used for the examining the inside of your uterus. The scope is inserted through your vagina.
• Laparoscopy is used to examine your abdominal or pelvic area. The scope is inserted through a small incision near the area that’s being examined.
• Laryngoscopy is used to examine your voice box, or larynx. The scope is inserted through your mouth or nostril.
• Mediastinoscopy is used to examine the area between the lungs called the “mediastinum.” The scope is inserted through an incision above your breastbone.
• Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is used to examine your esophagus and upper intestinal tract. The scope is inserted through your mouth.
• Ureteroscopy is used to examine your ureter. The scope is inserted through your urethra.