A method that our gastroenterologists can use to assess the health of your digestive tract is endoscopic ultrasound. Used to diagnose a variety of problems your digestion may be facing, this procedure is another one of Kalamazoo Gastroenterology Hepatology’s thorough ways to ensure that you are properly diagnosed with your digestive health.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure to assess gastrointestinal diseases. A special endoscope is used to produce detailed images of the lining and walls of your digestive tract and organs nearby, mainly the pancreas, liver, and lymph nodes.
After you have checked in for your outpatient procedure, you will be given medication to help you relax for the EUS. During the procedure, the doctor will pass a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) through your mouth and your digestive tract. The tube contains a transducer that produces sound wave that creates an image of surrounding tissue. During the procedure a fine needle aspiration (FNA) may be done on lymph nodes, tumors or other abnormalities that are noted either during the exam or from previous radiology studies, such as a CT scan or MRI. FNA will extract fluid and tissue for analysis, then this sample is sent to pathology to evaluate. FNA will use a second curved device that is placed through a channel in the endoscope. The endoscope is then gradually withdrawn.
Like other procedures, there are preparations that must be made by the patient as well as general questions that patients may have in regards to their EUS. Kalamazoo Gastroenterology Hepatology provides all the information patients need to feel like they know what to expect when they come through our doors. Read through some of the common questions we receive regarding an EUS to learn more.
This test must be done after the patient has had nothing to eat or drink for a certain amount of time. There may also be certain medication that will need to be held prior to the appointment. If you are having a lower EUS (rectum/colon), bowel prep will need to be done prior to the procedure. The doctor’s office will explain the prep to you in detail when the appointment is scheduled.
Lymphoma, Neuroendocrine tumors, Pancreatitis & pancreatic cysts, Bile duct stones, Cancer of the colon, esophagus, lung, pancreas, stomach and ampullary, and rectal cancers.
You might not be able to have an EUS if you have had abdominal surgery that changed your anatomy, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
EUS is generally safe when performed at a center or hospital and you have followed the instructions for preparing for the EUS. The doctor will discuss the risks associated with EUS. Risks may include: Bleeding, infection, tearing (perforation) of the intestinal wall and pancreatitis if FNA is done on the pancreas.
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