Types of Endoscopy – Procedures, Uses, and What to Expect

Why Is Endoscopy Done?

Endoscopy helps doctors diagnose a variety of health problems that cannot be easily detected through blood tests or scans. You may be advised an endoscopy if you have:

• Ongoing or unexplained stomach pain or bloating

• Difficulty swallowing food or fluids

• Persistent acidity or heartburn

• Blood in vomit or stool

• Chronic cough or breathing trouble

• Frequent urinary tract infections

• Joint pain or stiffness that doesn’t improve

There are two main purposes of endoscopy:

1. Diagnostic Endoscopy: Used to identify what’s wrong — for example, ulcers, tumors, or infections.

2. Therapeutic Endoscopy: Used to treat the condition — like removing gallstones or stopping bleeding in the stomach.

Because it is both precise and safe, endoscopy helps in early disease detection — which means faster treatment and better outcomes.

Types of Endoscopy

Endoscopy is not one single test. There are many types of endoscopy, each designed to examine a specific organ system. Let’s break them down one by one.

1. Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy

This is the most common category of endoscopy, used to examine the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and colon.

A. Upper GI Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD)

This test examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. It’s done when patients experience acidity, reflux, vomiting, or stomach pain. The doctor passes the endoscope gently through the mouth under mild sedation.
Uses: Detects ulcers, gastritis, swallowing disorders, and early signs of stomach cancer.
Keywords: upper GI endoscopy, EGD procedure, stomach endoscopy, endoscopy for acid reflux.

B. Colonoscopy and Sigmoidoscopy (Lower GI Endoscopy)

These procedures examine the colon and rectum. They’re useful for identifying polyps, bleeding, or colon cancer. A colonoscopy views the entire colon, while a sigmoidoscopy covers the lower portion.
Preparation: You’ll need to follow a liquid diet and take a bowel-cleansing solution before the test.
Keywords: colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy preparation.

C. Capsule Endoscopy

In this advanced technique, you swallow a small capsule containing a camera that captures thousands of images as it travels through your digestive tract. It’s especially helpful for viewing the small intestine, which can’t be reached by other scopes.
Uses: Detects Crohn’s disease, small bowel bleeding, or tumors.
Keywords: capsule endoscopy, small bowel endoscopy, enteroscopy.

D. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)

This test examines your liver, pancreas, and bile ducts using a combination of endoscopy and X-rays. It’s performed when you have jaundice, gallstones, or pancreatic problems.
Keywords: ERCP procedure, bile duct endoscopy, ERCP for gallstones.

E. EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound)

EUS combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to get detailed pictures of deeper organs such as the pancreas, liver, or lungs.
Uses: Detects small tumors or growths not visible on CT scans.
Keywords: endoscopic ultrasound EUS, EUS vs ERCP.

2. Respiratory Endoscopy

Bronchoscopy

If you have chronic cough, breathing issues, or abnormal chest X-rays, your doctor may recommend a bronchoscopy.
A thin tube is passed through your nose or mouth into your airways to view the trachea and lungs.
Uses: Detects infections, blockages, or early signs of lung disease.
Keywords: bronchoscopy, lung endoscopy, respiratory tract endoscopy.

3. Urinary and Reproductive Endoscopy

Cystoscopy

A cystoscopy allows doctors to look inside the bladder and urethra to identify causes of frequent urination, blood in urine, or bladder stones.
A thin scope is inserted through the urethra under local anesthesia.
Keywords: cystoscopy, urinary bladder endoscopy.

Hysteroscopy

This procedure is used for women’s health — it examines the uterus and cervix using a small camera inserted through the vagina.
Uses: Diagnoses abnormal bleeding, fibroids, and fertility problems.
Keywords: hysteroscopy, uterine endoscopy.

4. Musculoskeletal and Abdominal Endoscopy

Arthroscopy

An arthroscopy is performed on joints such as the knee, shoulder, or ankle. It helps doctors diagnose ligament tears, cartilage damage, or arthritis.
Since it involves only small incisions, recovery is much faster compared to open surgery.
Keywords: arthroscopy, joint endoscopy.

Laparoscopy

Also called “keyhole surgery,” laparoscopy is done to examine organs in the abdomen or pelvis, like the gallbladder, liver, uterus, or ovaries.
Uses: Helpful in diagnosing infertility, hernias, or appendicitis.

ENT Endoscopy (Otoscopy, Laryngoscopy, Nasal Endoscopy)

These tests are used to examine the ears, nose, and throat. They help detect sinus problems, throat growths, or hearing issues.

How Is an Endoscopy Done?

While each type of endoscopy is different, the process follows a few common steps:

1. Preparation: You’ll need to fast for a few hours before the procedure.

2. Sedation or Anesthesia: Depending on the area being examined, you may be given local or mild general anesthesia.

3. Insertion of the Endoscope: The doctor gently inserts the endoscope to capture real-time images.

4. Observation or Biopsy: If necessary, small tissue samples are taken for testing.

5. Recovery: You rest for a short period after the procedure. Most people can go home the same day.

Endoscopy procedures usually take between 15 and 60 minutes.

Proper preparation ensures a smooth and accurate procedure.

• Diet: Avoid eating 6–8 hours before your test.

• Liquids: Clear liquids like water or coconut water are usually fine.

• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medicines or supplements you take, especially blood thinners or diabetes drugs.

• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes and remove jewelry.

• Accompaniment: Bring a friend or family member if you’re receiving sedation.

Aftercare and Recovery

After an endoscopy, mild throat discomfort or bloating is normal. You can usually start eating soft foods within a few hours.

Tips for faster recovery:

• Avoid spicy or heavy meals for a day.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Follow any prescribed medicines or post-test advice.

Risks and Complications

Endoscopy is a safe test when performed by experienced doctors.
Rarely, it may cause:

• Mild bleeding (especially if a biopsy was taken)
• Infection
• Reaction to sedation
• Small tears in the lining of an organ

Always choose a trusted hospital with expert gastroenterologists and advanced facilities.

Endoscopy Cost in India

The cost of endoscopy in India depends on the type of test and hospital.

• Upper GI Endoscopy: ₹3,000–₹5,000

• Colonoscopy: ₹5,000–₹8,000

• Capsule Endoscopy: ₹15,000–₹25,000

• ERCP or EUS: ₹10,000–₹20,000

At Paras Health, patients receive comprehensive endoscopy services with modern technology and expert doctors — ensuring accuracy, comfort, and affordability.

Advanced Endoscopy Techniques

With medical innovation, endoscopy has evolved dramatically. Modern hospitals now offer:

• Robotic Endoscopy: Controlled precision for complex procedures.

• 3D Endoscopy: High-definition visuals for better accuracy.

• Video Endoscopy: Real-time recording for diagnosis and follow-up.

• Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) and Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD): Techniques to remove early-stage cancers without open surgery.

Key Takeaway

Endoscopy is one of the safest and most accurate diagnostic procedures in modern medicine.
Whether it’s a simple stomach endoscopy or a complex ERCP, it helps doctors detect diseases early and guide treatment effectively.

With the right preparation and expert care, endoscopy can be a quick, smooth, and informative experience.

FAQ's 

What are the different types of endoscopy tests?

There are several types including upper GI endoscopy, colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy, ERCP, bronchoscopy, cystoscopy, hysteroscopy, arthroscopy, and laparoscopy.

Is endoscopy painful or uncomfortable?

No, it isn’t. You’ll be given sedation or local anesthesia, so you’ll feel relaxed and may only notice mild pressure or bloating.

How long does an endoscopy take?

Most endoscopy tests take 15–60 minutes, depending on the type and whether a biopsy is performed.

Can endoscopy detect cancer?

Yes. Endoscopy helps detect early signs of cancer in organs like the stomach, colon, or lungs by allowing tissue sampling (biopsy).

What should I eat after endoscopy?

Start with light meals — soups, porridge, and soft foods. Avoid spicy, oily, or acidic foods for a day.

Is endoscopy done under anesthesia?

Yes, a mild sedative or local anesthesia is given to make you comfortable throughout the procedure.

What is the difference between endoscopy and colonoscopy?

Endoscopy is a broader term for viewing internal organs; colonoscopy specifically examines the large intestine (colon and rectum).

How much does endoscopy cost in India?

The cost ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 depending on the type, location, and hospital facilities.

Are there any risks after endoscopy?

Risks are rare and minor — temporary bloating, sore throat, or mild bleeding if a biopsy was taken.

Where can I get endoscopy done near me?

You can get it at any multispecialty hospital with a gastroenterology unit. Paras Health offers all major types of endoscopy across India with expert specialists.

Conclusion

Endoscopy has completely changed how doctors diagnose diseases — from digestive problems to lung disorders. It’s fast, safe, and helps catch issues early before they become serious.

At Paras Health, we offer all major types of endoscopy, performed by expert specialists using world-class equipment, ensuring comfort, accuracy, and quick recovery for every patient.

If you’ve been advised to get an endoscopy, don’t delay — early diagnosis can make all the difference.
To book your endoscopy test, call 8080808069 or visit your nearest Paras Health hospital.