Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a low-risk diagnostic procedure. It combines two procedures:
Endoscopy: In this, a thin and lighted tube is inserted inside the body
Ultrasound: It makes use of high-frequency sound waves to receive images
Endoscopic Ultrasound is a low-risk diagnosis process that makes use of an endoscope having an ultrasound probe with it. EUS is done for evaluation and diagnosis of lower and upper digestive tract disorders. The procedure takes near about one to two hours and you can go back to your home after it.
Why is Endoscopic Ultrasound done?
For the diagnosis of different digestive disorders, a doctor will recommend EUS. In EUS detailed images of internal structures are captured. These images can be used for:
- Detecting tumors in the pancreas
- Learning stages of gastrointestinal cancers
- Detecting stones present in the biliary ducts
For performing biopsy during EUS doctor might go for fine-needle aspiration. A thin needle will be threaded into the endoscope to take the tissue sample for examination. The biopsy will help in determining if a person is having cancer or if cancer has already spread.
What to expect when you go for an endoscopic ultrasound?
Before the procedure will start you will be required to follow some instructions. Once you are recommended for the test your doctor will discuss all the requirements with you in detail. The preparations include:
You are not allowed to eat before 6-8 hours if you are going for upper gastrointestinal tract EUS. This is to ensure that tract is having no food.
In the case of lower gastrointestinal tract EUS, you will be on a liquid diet and go for laxative preparation.
If you have any allergy do let your doctor know about them.
For your test, it is advisable to reach before one or two hours of the EUS procedure. Make sure you have a responsible person with you who can take you back home after the procedure is done.