Self Instructional Manual for Cancer Registrars - SEER - National ...

In all of the "oscopies" described so far, the scope has been inserted through a natural opening
in the body. However, in the following four types of "oscopiesn, an actual incision is made and the
instrument is inserted into the body space that is to be examined.
CULDOSCOPY: Visual examination of the female pelvic viscera by means of an
endoscope introduced through the posterior vaginal wall into that part
of the pelvic cavity known as the rectovaginal pouch or cul de sac
LAPAROSCOPY: Examination of intra-abdominal structures by means of an illuminated
tubular instrument (laparoseope) inserted through a small incision in
the abdominal wall
MEDIASTINOSCOPY: Examination of the mediastinum by means of a tubular instrument
permitting direct inspection of the area between the lungs
PERITONEOSCOPY:
Examination of the peritoneal cavity by an instrument inserted through
the abdominal wall (See also laparoscopy)
THORACOSCOPY: Direct examination of the pleural cavity by means of an endoscope
which is inserted into the cavity through an intercostal space
An example of a mediastinoscopy follows on the next page (Example F13). Abstract what you
think is pertinent, then cheek with the suggested abstraction on page 165.
161