Endoscopy Technology and Endoscopy Techs
Reviewed by AIMS Education Staff
February 20, 2021
Medical technology is shaping the future of healthcare, which includes significant advancements in endoscopy technology. As it provides a less invasive patient care treatment, the increasing use of endoscopic procedures is resulting in a higher demand for qualified endoscopy technicians.
Read on to learn more about the future of endoscopy, the latest endoscopy technologies, and what it takes to pursue a career as an endoscopy technician.
Endoscopy Techs and Endoscopy Technology

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Endoscopy technicians, also called gastroenterology technicians, are professionals who assist physicians and nurses in performing endoscopies. The procedure is carried out to examine and treat problems with the stomach, colon, ears, nose, throat, heart, and urinary tract. The job responsibilities for endoscopy technicians involve gathering patient data, preparing and sterilizing equipment, and providing other essential support during and after endoscopy procedures.
As the field is constantly evolving, the duties assigned to endo technicians become more and more diverse. Specialists need to keep up with the latest medical technologies and trends in the patient care processes. They work on a fairly predictable schedule, which can, however, be quite dynamic. Factors such as the constant stream of patients and other occasional challenges may require different working hours.
There are many other interesting facts you should know before becoming an endoscopy tech. But one thing is for sure - being a lifelong learner would be beneficial if you want to get trained for the role.
Increased Demand for Savvy Endoscopy Techs
Gastroenterology technicians are among the allied healthcare professionals in high demand. This is due to the increasing demand for endoscopy services across people of all ages. Entering into the field will not only give you a stable occupation but also open up new professional opportunities you can pursue in the future.
Recent summary reports for endoscopy techs show some promising employment trends. Demand for all healthcare support workers is projected to go up, with an expected 11,300 new job openings by 2029. This represents an annual increase of between 5 and 7 percent, which is faster than the average growth.
So if you are a tech-savvy team player who wants to work in a dynamic healthcare environment with fantastic job outlooks, you will make a wonderful GI specialist! Check out the full endoscopy technician skills checklist to determine whether you will be a good fit for the role.
New Approaches to Endoscopy Tech Training
To enter into the endoscopy field, one can start with an endoscopy tech certificate program and acquire more practical experience learning about endoscopy technology on the go.
A number of educational training tools have been introduced to improve skill acquisition amongst trainees. In addition to the use of training manikins, the use of virtual reality simulators can offer an alternative training method. What is more - in times of the coronavirus pandemic, it is a fantastic alternative to conventional methods. Hybrid and online certificate programs have also become available to allow a continuous and more convenient form of learning.
All these taken together make education more accessible and improve the efficiency of the learning process. Despite your background, availability, and financial situation, you will surely be able to find a training program that accommodates all your needs. But before choosing a program, make sure to check this comprehensive guide on becoming an endoscopy tech.
What Equipment Do Endoscopy Techs Use?
As an endoscopy technician, you will be expected to use and look after endoscopy instruments. The most popular one is called an endoscope - a long, thin tube with a small camera and light at the end of it. It is inserted into the patient's body to help the doctor diagnose a variety of diseases and conditions. An endoscope is used for procedures like gastroscopies, enteroscopies, and colonoscopies.
A wireless capsule endoscopy is another popular procedure and one of the latest innovations in the field. It is common for initial investigation and screening of gastrointestinal bleeding and some bowel pathologies.
Learning About Developments in Endoscopy Technology
As you can see, the technological advancements in healthcare have great benefits to both patients and medical staff. They help decrease risks, optimize processes, and last but not least - provide more accurate results.
Staying on top of the technology trends and innovation is key for every endo technician. That is why being genuinely passionate about technology would be valuable to your job satisfaction and potential career advancement.
If this profile matches you, you will be interested to learn more about trending technology in healthcare and the innovations that will come into force during the next decade.
Endoscopy Technology Advancements
We touched a bit on some of the new endoscopy procedures and techniques that emerged from technological advances. Now let’s explore some innovative instruments and tools that are gaining popularity in endoscopy technology.
Disposable Endoscopy
Disposable endoscopes are an emerging category of endoscopic instruments that have been designed to respond to the increasing demand for low-cost endoscopes. Disposable endoscopes are more cost-effective compared to reusable endoscopes. Not only do they offer similar performance, but also they do not require cleaning after use. Also, some modern devices can be converted from flexible to rigid mode.
More Flexible Endoscopy Devices
Technology allows new devices to be designed with optimal shape and usability in mind. Modern endoscopes often have better flexibility and shape, which increases the comfort during the procedure for both doctors and patients.
Flexibility makes the technique less invasive and more effective. And what is more, a flexible endoscope helps the physician see different organs in more detail and thus results in a more accurate diagnosis.
Computer Technology and Robotics in Endoscopy

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Some advanced endoscopy procedures have emerged as a result of the new findings in computer science and robotics. Computer-controlled colonoscopes, for example, allow computer-assisted insertion and movement of the scope. The procedure is designed to help avoid loop formation in a minimally invasive way.
Another innovative instrument - self-propelled-colonoscope - is currently being developed. It is designed to enhance visualization and minimize the risks of complications. This robotic tool provides a 360° view and also guarantees a less painful overall procedure. In addition, various software tools allow digital recordings of endoscopy procedures as well as higher quality images. Technology has a strong impact on healthcare as it continues to improve and upgrade standard procedures. We believe there are even more tools and techniques yet to be developed.
Advances in Endoscopic Imaging
Just like images improve across all digital devices, endoscopic imagining is constantly improving to provide a higher definition picture. Such an example is the Narrow band imaging (NBI) endoscope. It uses a special filter to help create more contrast between vessels and the mucosa and thus provide a more detailed and clear picture.
The ongoing technological advancements and introduction of new, more convenient, efficient, and easy to use instruments, are among the many great reasons to become an endoscopy tech. While learning to use a wide variety of new endoscopes and systems, you will also be improving your skills and staying abreast of all of the latest developments in the medical world.
New Techniques in Endoscopy Technology
Capsule Endoscopy
Since endoscopy technology is constantly advancing, there are newer generations of endoscopes that come into use. One of them - capsule endoscopy - is a revolutionary method that carries fewer risks and doesn’t cause as much discomfort. The patient swallows a small pill that has a tiny camera inside. It works with wireless technology that allows taking pictures of many inside organs for approximately 8 hours that are later reviewed by the doctor.
Chromoendoscopy
This technique involves using a specialized stain or dye in conjunction with endoscopy in order to improve the visualization of the intestinal lining. It helps doctors and technicians to notice abnormalities more easily.
Endoscopic Ultrasound
Endoscopic ultrasound is another minimally invasive procedure for screening organs and tissues that are usually not visible or accessible during a standard endoscopy. To perform it, professionals use an endoscope with an ultrasound probe attached to it.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
EMR is a very useful technique that allows physicians to remove abnormal tissues in the patient’s digestive tract. To perform the procedure, they inject fluid into the layer of cells below the abnormal area.
CT Colonography
Computed tomography (CT) colonography is also called virtual colonoscopy. This procedure uses special x-ray equipment to examine the large bowel (colon) and back passage (rectum) for cancer, polyps, and other abnormalities. The test is normally carried out by a radiographer or specialist doctor (radiologist).
Entry-Level Jobs in the Field of Endoscopy
The future of endoscopy is promising, so you can be sure that a career change to this field will lead to many opportunities. And for those of you who still need to make up your minds - know that entry-level endoscopy technician jobs in New Jersey tend to be very well paid! Endoscopy technician programs only take about a year to complete and come with some great rewards afterward.
Those of you who are based in NJ and curious how much GI technicians make, make sure to explore this endoscopy tech opportunities guide. It will reveal everything you want to know about relevant salaries and boosting your career in the long run.