Abstract
Digestive endoscopy has been developed from the early endoscope to the rigid gastroscope, flexible gastroscope, gastrocamera, fiberscope, then the video endoscope. Recently, capsule endoscopy has also appeared on the scene. The key to the advancement which occurred over that time was the development of the optical source. As to the early endoscope, Bozzini's Lichtleiter was introduced in 1804 as a pioneer followed by several kinds of other early endoscopes, including Desormeaux's endoscope, then the development and application of various types of rigid gastroscope were attempted. The flexible gastroscope with limited flexibility has been improved to the gastrocamera, fiberscope, and finally the videoendoscope with enhanced flexibility. The videoendoscope has now become the main device with other functions. The author describes herein the story of development and advancement of devices, and the struggles experienced during that period. In recent years, videoendoscopy has made various image processing and the use of invisible imaging energy such as ultraviolet or infrared ray observation possible. Furthermore, narrow band imaging (NBI) and fluorescence endoscopy (AFI) have been added in clinical practice. Because the phrase “endoscopy with special light” had wings, the author expressed an opinion about it and proposed a new classification of endoscopic observational method. Also, focusing on the devices, the future prospect is described. Considering the past, present and future of endoscopy, the author would like to address the expectation for Japan from foreign, especially Asian, countries, and the challenges given to Japan.
