The invention relates to an endoscope having an endoscope shaft, at the distal end of which at least one optical unit and an illuminating means is provided, which are or can be connected via functional and/or supply channels within the endoscope shaft to proximal operating units, and a working channel that opens at the distal end of the endoscope shaft, is molded out in the endoscope shaft and is adapted to receive surgical instruments of the minimal invasive design. According to the invention, in the proximal end region of the endoscope, the working channel has at least two separate connections which can be used independently of one another, of which at least a first connection is suitable and preferably adapted to insert the surgical instrument into the working channel via the same, and of which at least a second connection is suitable and preferably adapted to introduce a fluid into the working channel or to remove said fluid from the latter.
