Endoscopic Ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines ultrasound technology and endoscopic examination technology to assess diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and other nearby organs and tissues. It can provide more detailed and accurate results compared to general ultrasound examinations.

EUS consists of two main components: an endoscope and an ultrasound probe. During the examination, the doctor will pass an endoscope through the patient's mouth or anus and place an ultrasound probe near the organ that needs to be examined. By emitting and receiving ultrasound waves, the probe generates images to help the doctor examine organs, tissues, lymph nodes, blood vessels, and surrounding tissues. EUS can examine the body's tissues at close range and provide higher resolution and more explicit images, allowing doctors to detect tiny lesions.

EUS can be used for both diagnosis and treatment and is suitable for the oesophagus, stomach, duodenum, pancreas, bile ducts, and lungs, among others. EUS is used to evaluate known abnormalities, including lumps or lesions detected at a prior endoscopy or seen on X-ray tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan. Doctors can use EUS to diagnose the properties, size and location of tumours, as well as whether there are signs of metastasis in surrounding tissues and lymph nodes. Doctors can also use EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) to collect samples if a tissue biopsy is needed. In addition to diagnosis, EUS can also be used for treatment, such as celiac plexus block and pancreatic pseudocyst drainage.

• Fast for 6 to 8 hours before the EUS examination.
• If you have diabetes, hypertension, heart valve disease, or are pregnant, inform medical staff and follow medication instructions.
• Inform medical staff of any medications you are taking, including drug allergy information.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, or inappropriate doses of sedatives before the examination.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery on the day of the examination, and have a family member or friend accompany you when leaving.

During the examination, medical staff will spray your throat with local anaesthesia and inject IV sedatives to help you relax and reduce discomfort. Then, a flexible endoscope with a diameter of approximately 1 to 1.4 cm will be inserted through the mouth to examine the upper digestive tract. The examination takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and the patient will remain conscious throughout.

You should only eat for one hour after the examination once the effects of the throat anaesthesia or sedatives have subsided. If you received a sedative injection, you should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or sign legal documents on the same day.

EUS is a relatively safe examination; some patients may feel nausea or abdominal discomfort afterwards. In addition, throat anaesthesia may cause temporary swallowing difficulties for the patient. More severe complications such as bleeding, infection, or gastrointestinal perforation are uncommon. Medical attention should be sought immediately if any abnormal conditions occur after the examination, such as bleeding or severe abdominal pain.

Virtus Gastroenterology and Hepatology Specialists

Virtus General Surgery Specialists