EUS
The letters EUS stand for endoscopic ultrasonography. This procedure can be performed to examine the upper part of
the gastrointestinal tract or the lower part of the GI tract. The upper GI tract includes the esophagus,
stomach, and top part of the small intestine, called the duodenum; the lower GI tract includes the colon,
anus, and rectum. EUS can also be used to examine other internal organs, such as the pancreas and gallbladder.
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Colonoscopy
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ERCP
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EUS
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
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Liver Biospy
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Stretta
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Upper GI Endoscopy
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The gastroenterologist uses an endoscope or colonoscope, which are long, thin, flexible tubes with a light and
camera at the end to help guide the scope throughout the duration of the procedure. During this procedure,
the scope emits sound waves that create visual images of the digestive tract that a normal endoscope cannot detect.
An EUS is usually performed to aid in the diagnosis and therapy of various GI disorders. It may also be performed
to assess the nature of a tumor that may have been detected at a prior endoscopic procedure. Finally,
by obtaining a sample of tissue by using a method known as "fine needle aspiration," an EUS can help to carefully
diagnose diseases of the pancreas, gallbladder, and bile duct.
The patient will remain comfortable during the procedure with the help of intravenous sedation. The drug will
enable the patient to remain semi-conscious throughout the procedure, but will most likely prevent the patient
from remembering the experience.
The duration of the procedure is normally about 45 minutes. Afterwards, the patient will wait in the recovery
room while the anesthetic wears off. Once the medication fades away, the patient may feel soreness in the
back of the throat or some cramping and fullness. Due to the lingering effects from the sedation, the patient
cannot drive or work for the remainder of the day, and therefore must have a ride home.
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