What does Endoscopy mean?

Endoscopy is a word of Greek origin, meaning 'looking inside' or 'in-sight'. Endoscopy is a new surgical technique, during which 3 very narrow tubes are introduced in the body through very small incisions. The tubes contain a tiny camera, a light source and surgical instruments; they can be manipulated from outside, while the procedures can be observed on a monitor. In traditional surgery, a larger incision/opening has to be made, to inspect the body from inside, and to perform surgery if necessary. In human medicine E. is applied already in many fields/for many purposes, such as female sterilisation, gall bladder operations, and for internal inspection of joints. Pet owners would like such new technology to become available for their loyal companions as well. In the United States endoscopy is already in regular use in veterinary medicine.