Electronic cameras with video feeds are replacing miniature optical pathways in endoscopes. In the past, these miniaturized optical pathways composed of prisms and lenses (and in later generations, optical fibre) would take the image to the last part of the endoscope where the doctor would have to view it, wherever it was located. Now, the camera’s video feed allows you to place the image on display anywhere, with any size, and very conveniently. Cameras in endoscopes does impose some very unique requirements on such a design.
Miniature cameras for the endoscope are lower in cost than optical pathways. Single chip cameras can be treated as a disposable item, avoiding the need for sterilization. The display and all the controlling logic are held in the reusable part of the device for repeated use.