Gastroscope: meaning, definitions and examples
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gastroscope
[ ˈɡæstɪˌskroʊp ]
medical instrument
A gastroscope is a medical instrument used for examining the stomach and other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a flexible tube with a light and camera attached, allowing physicians to view the lining of the stomach and take biopsies if necessary.
Synonyms
endoscope, gastrointestinal endoscope, stomach scope.
Examples of usage
- The doctor used a gastroscope to visualize the patient's stomach.
- A gastroscope is essential for diagnosing gastrointestinal disorders.
- During the procedure, the gastroscope provides real-time images of the stomach lining.
Etymology
The term 'gastroscope' is derived from the combination of two Greek words: 'gastro,' meaning stomach, and 'scope,' meaning to look or examine. The use of gastroscopes began in the early 20th century, following advancements in endoscopic technology. As surgical techniques improved and the need for non-invasive examination methods grew, the gastroscope was developed to allow direct visualization of the stomach and surrounding areas. The first successful gastroscopies were performed with rigid instruments, but the introduction of flexible fibre-optic technology revolutionized this field. Today, gastroscopy is a common procedure in gastroenterology, enabling doctors to diagnose conditions such as ulcers, cancers, and other gastrointestinal diseases effectively.