Endoscopy

An endoscopy is an examination of a patient's esophagus and duodenum by means of a long flexible tube (endoscope) with a camera attached so that a doctor can see any lesions that might exist. This non-surgical procedure is conducted under general anesthesia and is used to diagnose hiatal hernias and duodenal ulcers, amongst other conditions. For instance, a physician will order an endoscopy for a patient who was having unexplained bleeding in the digestive tract.