Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines the technologies of endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed images of your digestive tract and nearby organs. During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth into your digestive tract. Equipped with a small ultrasound device at its tip, the endoscope emits sound waves that produce clear, precise images of both the digestive and lung systems, allowing for close examination.
Why do We Use EUS?
EUS is useful for diagnosing and evaluating conditions that other tests might miss. It helps with:
- Finding and staging digestive system cancers, like esophageal, stomach, pancreatic and rectal cancers.
- Checking for chronic pancreatitis or other issues with the pancreas.
- Looking for bile duct stones and other problems in the bile duct.
- Examining unusual growths in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Guiding fine-needle aspiration (FNA) to get tissue samples for biopsy.
EUS Procedure Overview
Sedation: Medications will be administered through an IV to help you relax or sedate you. Sometimes, a numbing medication is used for the throat. A bite block is placed to protect your teeth, and dentures must be removed. You will likely lie on your left side during the procedure.
Endoscopic Insertion: The doctor gently inserts the endoscope through your mouth and guides it into your digestive tract. Depending on the area to be examined, the endoscope may also be inserted through the anus.
Imaging: The ultrasound device at the end of the scope sends out sound waves, creating detailed images of your tissues and organs. This allows the doctor to closely examine the walls of your digestive tract and nearby structures, such as the pancreas, liver, and lymph nodes.
Fine-Needle Aspiration (Optional): If necessary, the doctor can pass a thin needle through the endoscope to take a biopsy (tissue sample) from any abnormal areas seen during the ultrasound.
After the Procedure:
- Recovery: You will stay in the recovery area until the sedation wears off. You might feel groggy, so it’s best to rest for the day. You may have a sore throat or feel bloated.
- Diet and Activity: Follow your doctor’s advice. Start with fluids and light meals. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for 48 hours.
Possible Complications
EUS is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, there are some risks. Potential complications include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Perforation (a tear in the gastrointestinal tract)
- Allergic reaction to sedatives or contrast dye
Your doctor will explain these risks in detail before the procedure and discuss any specific concerns you may have.
When to Call Your Doctor
After the procedure, contact your doctor if you experience:
- Fever.
- Severe or constant stomach pain.
- Neck or chest pain.
- Severe nausea or vomiting.
- Vomiting blood.
- Black or very dark-colored stool.
These could be signs of a complication that needs immediate attention.
General Preparation Instructions for Gastrointestinal Procedures
Each gastrointestinal procedure requires specific preparations to ensure your safety and the success of the treatment. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fasting: Avoid food and drinks, including water, for several hours, or more as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Medications: You may need to adjust or pause certain medications. Follow the specific directions given by your doctor.
- Bowel Prep: Some procedures require clearing the intestines using either a liquid solution or pills containing laxatives. Procedures like colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and PillCam capsule endoscopy typically require this type of preparation.
Please consult your doctor for detailed preparation instructions tailored to your health needs and the specific procedure.
Schedule an Appointment
Scheduling your appointment is through your gastroenterologist or by physician referral to one of our gastroenterologists.
Please contact your Gastroenterologist's office to schedule an exam/appointment. Contact us at 909.865.9141 for inquiries or questions.
If you do not have a primary care physician, please visit our website, mypvhc.com, to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician.
