Description

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to examine the digestive tract and nearby organs. It provides detailed images of the digestive tract walls, as well as surrounding structures like the pancreas, liver, gallbladder, lymph nodes, and blood vessels. EUS is both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool, allowing doctors to visualize and sometimes treat conditions in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and adjacent areas. How Endoscopic Ultrasound Works Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is inserted through the mouth or rectum. The endoscope has a light, camera, and ultrasound probe at its tip. Ultrasound: The ultrasound probe emits sound waves that create detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues. Real-Time Imaging: The images are displayed on a monitor, allowing the doctor to assess abnormalities in real time. Uses of Endoscopic Ultrasound EUS is used for both diagnosis and treatment of various conditions: Diagnostic Uses Staging Cancer: Assess the depth of tumors in the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, or rectum. Determine if cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or organs. Evaluating Pancreatic and Biliary Disorders: Diagnose pancreatic cysts, tumors, or chronic pancreatitis. Investigate bile duct abnormalities (e.g., blockages, stones). Examining Submucosal Lesions: Evaluate abnormal growths beneath the lining of the digestive tract. Lymph Node Assessment: Detect enlarged or abnormal lymph nodes near the GI tract. Guiding Biopsies: Obtain tissue samples (fine-needle aspiration or FNA) from suspicious areas for further analysis. Therapeutic Uses Drainage of Fluid Collections: Remove fluid from pancreatic pseudocysts or abscesses. Pain Relief: Perform celiac plexus neurolysis to relieve pain from pancreatic cancer or chronic pancreatitis. Placement of Stents: Insert stents to relieve blockages in the bile or pancreatic ducts. Preparation for EUS Fasting: You’ll need to stop eating and drinking for 6–8 hours before the procedure. Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications. Sedation: You’ll likely receive sedation or anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. What to Expect During the Procedure You’ll lie on your side or back on an exam table. Sedation or anesthesia is administered to help you relax. The endoscope is gently inserted through your mouth (for upper EUS) or rectum (for lower EUS). The doctor uses the ultrasound probe to capture images and may take tissue samples if needed. The procedure typically takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the complexity. After the Procedure You’ll be monitored until the sedation wears off. You may experience a sore throat (if the scope was inserted through the mouth) or mild bloating. Avoid eating or drinking until the sedation effects wear off. You’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Risks and Complications EUS is generally safe, but potential risks include: Bleeding (especially after a biopsy). Infection. Perforation (a tear in the digestive tract wall). Reaction to sedation. When is EUS Recommended? Your doctor may recommend EUS if: You have unexplained abdominal pain or weight loss. Imaging tests (e.g., CT, MRI) show abnormalities in the digestive tract or nearby organs. You need a biopsy of a hard-to-reach area. You have a condition that requires therapeutic intervention (e.g., pancreatic cyst drainage). If you’re scheduled for an EUS or have questions about the procedure, feel free to ask for more detail to our Endoscopy specialist Best Gastroenterologist Dr. Snehal Makeshwar at his Gastro Cure Clinic, Panchsheel Square Nagpur

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