What does the term "-scopy" refer to?

The term "-scopy" derives from the Greek word "skopein," which means "to look" or "to examine." In medical terminology, it specifically refers to the process of examining or visualizing internal structures or organs. This is often done through specialized instruments, such as endoscopes, which allow healthcare professionals to perform diagnostic procedures or even therapeutic interventions by looking inside the body.

For example, a colonoscopy is the examination of the colon, and a bronchoscopy is the examination of the airways and lungs. The emphasis of "-scopy" lies in the examination aspect, confirming that the correct interpretation of the term is indeed related to the observation and assessment of internal body parts.