Endoscopic ultrasound

What is Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)?

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a type of imaging test used to examine the digestive system and other organs inside the body. It combines the use of a special endoscope — a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end — with high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the walls of the upper digestive tract and the surrounding organs.

Preparation

When preparing for an EUS, eating and drinking should be avoided for at least six to eight hours before the procedure. Depending on the doctor’s instructions, the patient may also be asked to take a laxative or enema the evening before the examination or the morning of the procedure.

Procedure

During an EUS, a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end is inserted through the mouth, esophagus, and into the stomach and duodenum. As the tube moves through the digestive tract, ultrasound waves from sensors at the tip of the scope create detailed images of the walls of the upper digestive tract and the surrounding organs. The information is sent to a computer, which creates the images that the doctor can then view on a monitor.

Types of EUS

• Conventional (standard) EUS
• Color Flow or Power Doppler EUS
• 3-Dimensional EUS
• Elastography EUS

Why EUS?

EUS is the most accurate imaging test for diagnosing certain conditions in the upper digestive tract. It is also used to stage tumors in the esophagus, stomach, and pancreas. It can also be used for collecting tissue samples for biopsies.

When to get EUS?

EUS may be recommended if you have symptoms that suggest the presence of an underlying condition or tumor in the digestive system. It may be used to evaluate the following conditions:

• Cancer of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and bile ducts
• Inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn's disease
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Strictures in the gastrointestinal tract
• Liver diseases

Risks

EUS is generally considered a safe procedure with few risks. Possible complications may include infection, bleeding, and perforation of the gastrointestinal tract.