Modern Endoscopy

Author: Liu Houyu
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2001-05-01
Features: The preface discusses how, before the discovery of X-rays by Roentgen, doctors could only infer internal diseases from external signs of patients. Even with X-ray examinations, the images were indirect. As the saying goes, "chasing the wind and catching shadows," which reflects the traditional Chinese perspective that we often undervalue the significance of shadows. Starting in the 1930s, endoscopic examinations began to emerge. Particularly in the 1950s, the introduction of fiber-optic endoscopes allowed doctors to directly visualize the interiors of many organs, providing a sense of reassurance with the phrase "seeing is believing." Moreover, endoscopes can not only be visualized but also accessed—by inserting biopsy forceps through the endoscope, tissue samples can be taken for accurate disease diagnosis. Through endoscopes, miniature surgical instruments can also be inserted to perform surgical procedures, which are minimally invasive and promote rapid recovery, making them highly popular among patients. In the past two decades, various new types of endoscopes have been introduced, further highlighting their increasingly important role in clinical diagnosis and treatment. As a result, many large comprehensive hospitals have established endoscopic centers and have developed a team of specialized professionals dedicated to this field. "Endoscopy" has also become a highly specialized discipline with a broad scope of application.
There are many types of endoscopes, categorized by their application sites into nasopharyngeal scopes, bronchoscopes, gastroscopes, duodenoscopes, choledochoscopes, enteroscopes, colonoscopes, thoracoscopes, mediastinoscopes, laparoscopes, arthrosopes, cystoscopes, ureteroscopes, colposcopes, galactoscopes, angioscopes, and ventriculoscopes, among others. They are also classified by form into flexible and rigid scopes, and by features into electronic endoscopes, scopes, and ultrasound endoscopes. With the increasing variety and expanding applications of endoscopes, certain diagnostic procedures using endoscopes, such as gastroscopy for early diagnosis of gastric cancer, cystoscopy for investigating the cause of hematuria, and esophageal injection of sclerosants via esophagoscopy for treating bleeding from esophageal varices in portal hypertension, have become indispensable clinical diagnostic and treatment methods. It is believed that with further advancements in computer technology in the field of endoscopy, the application of endoscopes in clinical practice will continue to expand in the 21st century.
As the number of professionals working in endoscopy increases and the technology continues to develop, there is a growing need for a comprehensive reference book in this field. In light of this, Liu Houyu, Director of the Digestive Society of Shanghai Medical Association and Professor of Internal Medicine at Zhongshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University Medical College, and Yao Liqing, Director of the Endoscopic Center at Zhongshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University Medical College and Professor of General Surgery, have led the compilation of this book, collaborating with over 80 experts from various disciplines across China. Unlike academic papers, which must include mature experiences and proven methods, this book stands out by featuring the latest research findings and valuable experiences of its authors, who are active professionals in endoscopic practice. In addition to discussing the clinical applications of endoscopy in various disciplines, the book also covers topics such as the composition of endoscopic centers, equipment configuration, endoscope maintenance, and physician training, making it a comprehensive resource in the field of endoscopy. Thus, this book is not only valuable for clinicians in all disciplines but also beneficial for hospital administrators. Before its publication, I had the opportunity to preview it and am confident that readers will find it immensely helpful, thereby contributing to the advancement of endoscopic medicine in China, ultimately benefiting patients.
The authors have diligently compiled this book amidst their busy medical, teaching, and research responsibilities, which I deeply admire. Therefore, I am honored to write a few words at the beginning of this book to introduce it to readers, or perhaps it could be considered a preface.
Yang Binghui, Professor of Internal Medicine and President of Zhongshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University Medical College
March 2001