History of endoscopy development

Creation of the first endoscopic equipment

The predecessor of the endoscope was invented by Philippe Bozzini (1773-1808). His device, the «Lichtleiter», consisted of a system of tubes and a candle holder. Light was directed through the tubes into body cavities, but the main drawbacks were the heat and smoke it produced. As a result, the invention was not widely adopted by doctors of that time.

Antoine Jean Desormeaux (1815-1882) is commonly known as the "father of endoscopy." He replaced the candle in Bozzini's apparatus with a mixture of alcohol and turpentine, which provided better illumination. He also added condenser lenses to concentrate the light in one area. The doctor was the first to conduct successful studies on his own patients. Over time, the set of lenses in rigid devices was improved, and the light source was replaced with electric bulbs. While the lighting was built into the end of the endoscope, the issue of overheating remained unresolved, often resulting in burns for patients.

Steps of history to the creation of the first modern endoscope

The first endoscopes resembled rigid tubes with cameras at the end, primarily used to examine the stomach and intestines. In 1932, the gastroscope was invented, allowing doctors to see inside the stomach. This innovation marked a significant advancement in diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases.

After 1960, the first endoscope with optical fibers was developed, enabling the transmission of images over long distances. This innovation allowed specialists to obtain a more detailed view of internal organs and tissues, making endoscopy more accurate and efficient.

In the 1970s, the first endoscopes combined with lasers were developed. This advancement greatly facilitated various medical procedures, including the removal of tumors and stones, as well as the treatment of various diseases.

The digital era of endoscopes

The invention of the charge-coupled device (CCD) by Bell Laboratories (AT&T) in 1969 paved the way for the "digital era" of endoscopy. This breakthrough made it possible to convert optical signals into electronic pulses. Ten years later, Welch Allyn engineers developed the first video endoscope. The device used a CCD to transmit the image to a monitor.

After 1981, video endoscopes began to be mass-produced and widely used in medicine. This new endoscopic equipment generated high-definition images and allowed for the storage of the collected materials. Now, multiple specialists could supervise the procedures.

Types of endoscopes

What is endoscopy? It is a procedure used to examine the tissues of internal organs, perform surgical interventions, and take biopsies using an endoscope. Devices used in endoscopy are categorized into two types, flexible and rigid.  Flexible models have a special structure and help to examine areas inaccessible to rigid devices. Medical endoscopes are named according to their field of application:

1. Bronchoscopes — are inserted through the nose and lowered to the lungs, where the camera and lighting allow detecting pathological processes, tumors, and bleeding.

2. Laryngoscopes are used for diagnostics and surgical procedures in the larynx.

3. Gastroscopes — used for endoscopy of the upper gastrointestinal tract.

4. Colonoscopes — examine the inner lining of the colon and rectum, help detect ulcers, tumors, polyps, inflammation, and bleeding.

5. Cystoscopes — have a thin tube for insertion into the bladder, detection of stones, tumors, changes in the prostate gland, neoplasms and other pathologies.

6. Duodenoscopes are used to examine the small intestine, remove gallstones, treat pancreatitis, and drain the bile ducts.

7. Enteroscopes — balloon, bubble, push, capsule endoscopy. The devices help to detect abnormalities, diagnose diseases and inflammation.

8. Urethroscopes — pass through the urethra to examine the ureters and bladder

9. Hysteroscopes — provide minimally invasive hysteroscopy procedures. A tiny tube of the device is inserted into the uterus through the cervix to perform surgical procedures.

Modern models of endoscopes are constantly being improved. Popular manufacturers offer endoscopic video systems that help to conduct comprehensive monitoring.

How endoscopy is performed

Many patients who go for endoscopy for the first time experience fear of the procedure. The course of the examination depends on the purpose of the endoscopy. Diagnostics do not cause pain. An anesthetic spray is used to suppress the gag reflex during the examination of the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Tube advancement does not cause pain. Before the procedure, experts recommend taking a sedative to eliminate anxiety and relaxation.

Colonoscopy is often a cause of concern for patients. The examination may cause discomfort when air is supplied to straighten the intestinal folds. This helps the doctor to fully examine the internal cavities. Specialists use thin and flexible devices that do not have sharp or protruding elements. The movement of the tube does not cause injury or irritation to the mucous membrane.

There are cases when local anesthesia is used for endoscopy. The examination is also performed under general anesthesia. This is relevant in the absence of the patient's ability to maintain immobility, neurological disorders, panic fear, which interfere with the procedure.

Prospects for the development of endoscopy

Endoscopic diagnostics allow for the assessment of organ and system conditions, the identification of inflammation, erosion, and the prevention of cancer development. Thanks to the use of special endoscope manipulators, specialists perform a number of manipulations like:

• removing foreign bodies and polyps;

• taking materials for research;

• expanding narrowed areas;

• restoring patency by installing stents;

• treating erosion.

An endoscopist must combine a deep understanding of clinical symptoms with technical skills and practical expertise, as well as a commitment to continuous learning. High-quality medical care involves conducting endoscopic examinations based on clear indications, providing accurate diagnoses, performing successful surgical interventions, ensuring patient safety and comfort, and minimizing complications.

Endoscopy in NBI mode is a cutting-edge examination technique. This equipment enhances image contrast of the mucosal surface without the need for dyes. The effect is achieved by utilizing the dependence of light wave penetration depth into the tissue on its wavelength. The principle of this technology involves dividing white light into several beams with a limited wavelength spectrum using a special light filter. Blue light penetrates superficially, providing a clear view of the mucous membrane and allowing the doctor to take precise biopsies from affected areas. Red light, which is absorbed by blood vessels, enables detailed examination of the submucosal layer.

The latest video endoscopes are equipped with special filters and can magnify images many times in Full HD quality. This capability allows for the detection of not only protruding neoplasms but also small, flat precursors. By using endoscopic examination methods promptly, patients can identify pathologies before clinical symptoms appear and address them before they develop.

Where to buy reliable endoscopy equipment

Bimedis marketplace offers a wide range of medical equipment from leading manufacturers. The platform is in demand among specialists around the world. Each client can quickly select the necessary devices for a medical institution at a favorable price. To get qualified assistance and answers to questions, please contact the managers.