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Endoscopic Untrasound (EUS)
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Overview |
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An endoscopic ultrasound exam is a visual examination of the lining of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and surrounding structures such as the pancreas and gall bladder, combined with an ultrasound exam. EUS also is used to guide instruments used for biopsy, drainage, injections and pain-killing treatments.
Most frequently, endoscopic ultrasound is performed to stage cancers of the esophagus, the pancreas and the rectum. Endoscopic ultrasound has the ability to identify the depth of tumor invasion through the gastrointestinal wall and whether the lymph nodes are involved. This information is critical in order to determine whether the tumor can be removed with surgery and, if so, what type of surgical procedure is most suitable.
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How Is the Procedure Done? |
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A lighted flexible tube with an ultrasound probe at its end is inserted through the mouth or anus. The endoscope is equipped with a small ultrasound transducer that produces sounds waves that create an image of the digestive track. There are two types of transducers:
Before the procedure, an IV will be placed in your arm and medication will be given to help you relax. If the tube will be passed through your mouth, the back of your throat will be sprayed with a local anesthetic to stop your gag reflex and to make it easier for the lighted flexible tube to be inserted. You be monitored closely during the procedure. Biopsies (small tissue samples for microscopic examination) may be performed during the test. |
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Preparation |
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Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your examination. Remember, no breakfast. Please notify the nurse or doctor if you have any allergies to medications. If you have diabetes and take insulin, on the morning of your exam you should not take any regular insulin and take only half of your usual Lente or NPH insulin dose. A small amount of clear liquids can be taken in the early morning if your appointment is in the afternoon.
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How Long Will the Procedure Take? |
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The test takes 1-2 hours. Afterwards, you will spend some time in the recovery room (until you are fully awake), so plan to be at the hospital for 3-4 hours total.
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After the Exam |
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Following the exam, you will be able to eat as soon as your gag reflex returns. Driving, operating machinery or riding a bicycle is not permitted for at least 12 hours because of drowsiness and delayed reflexes from the IV medication. Important decisions or any activity that requires you to be fully alert should not be done on the day of your test.
Please bring someone with you to your appointment that can drive you home, you may not drive yourself home.
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Are There Any Risks from EUS? |
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The risks of endoscopic ultrasound include:
Fine needle aspiration also carries a risk of causing an infection. This risk is minimized by administration of antibiotics prior to the procedure.
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