What is EUS?
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to assess the gastrointestinal tract and nearby organs such as the pancreas, bile ducts, and gallbladder. It combines endoscopy with ultrasound imaging, and can also be used for fine-needle aspiration (taking tissue samples).
When is EUS Used?
EUS may be recommended to:
- Evaluate lumps or lesions in the gastrointestinal tract wall
- Assess pancreatic, bile duct, or gallbladder diseases when other tests are inconclusive
- Obtain tissue samples (fine-needle aspiration) for diagnosis
- Stage certain cancers of the gastrointestinal tract
How Do I Prepare for EUS?
- Fasting: Do not eat for at least 8 hours before the procedure.
- Liquids: Stop drinking clear fluids at least 2 hours before.
- Medications: If you are taking blood-thinning medications, adjustments may be required - please discuss this with Dr Fazal.
- Escort: You must arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
How is EUS Performed?
You will receive sedation through an intravenous line. An endoscope approximately the size of a finger, equipped with an ultrasound probe, is gently passed through your mouth into the gastrointestinal tract.
The ultrasound images provide detailed views of the GI tract wall and surrounding organs. The procedure typically takes 30 to 40 minutes.
Are There Any Risks?
EUS is considered a safe procedure. Complications are rare but may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Perforation
- Pancreatitis (if fine-needle aspiration of the pancreas is performed)