What does the suffix "-scope" signify in medical terminology?

The suffix "-scope" in medical terminology indicates an instrument used for viewing or inspecting internal structures of the body. This term is derived from the Greek word "skopein," which means "to look" or "to examine." Instruments such as endoscopes, microscopes, and telescopes are all designed to provide a visual examination of various areas, whether it's examining the gastrointestinal tract, observing microscopic organisms, or viewing distant celestial objects.

In medical contexts, using the suffix "-scope" typically denotes the scope's specific function to facilitate visualization, aiding in diagnosis, treatment, or observation. The other choices do not accurately reflect the core meaning associated with this suffix. For example, while measurement devices exist, they are characterized by different suffixes based on their specific function, such as "-meter" for measurement tools. Similarly, binding procedures and techniques of examination are described using other terms rather than implying the act of viewing.