Endoscopic ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a medical procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to obtain images and information about the digestive tract and the surrounding tissue and organs. Endoscopy refers to the procedure of inserting a long, flexible tube directly into the body to observe an internal organ or tissue in detail, while ultrasound involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the structures within the body.

Procedure

During an EUS procedure, a small ultrasound device is installed on the tip of an endoscope. By inserting the endoscope into the upper or the lower digestive tract, a physician can obtain high quality ultrasound images of the organs inside the body. EUS can be used to evaluate a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal bleeding, tumors, cysts, chronic pancreatitis, and other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and lungs.

Uses

EUS is used to diagnose diseases of the pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder, and liver. It can also be used to evaluate certain lung diseases, and to determine the stage of cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, and rectum. EUS can also be used to determine the cause of abdominal pain or abnormal weight loss.

Risks

As with any procedure, EUS has potential risks. These may include a reaction to the sedatives used, infection, pancreatitis, and bleeding. However, these risks are relatively low.

Preparation

Before an EUS, patients may be asked to fast for a certain period of time. They may also need to stop taking certain medications.

After the Procedure

After the procedure, patients may feel bloated or have mild abdominal discomfort. The sedatives used during the procedure may cause drowsiness.

See Also

• Endoscopy
• Ultrasound
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Pancreas
• Liver
• Gallbladder
• Bile duct

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