What Is an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
An Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to visualise the lining and walls of the nearby organs along the route of the digestive tract. During an EUS, a thin, flexible tube called an echoendoscope is inserted through the mouth (upper EUS) or rectum (lower EUS) to reach the target area. This echoendoscope has an ultrasound probe that emits sound waves to create detailed images of the internal organs and tissues.
Due to the proximity of the digestive tract to the nearby organs such as the lungs, lymph nodes in the center of the chest, liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas it allows for tissue acquisition via fine needle aspiration (FNA) or biopsy (FNB) for the diagnosis of cancer and other diseases.
What Diseases Can Be Detected by an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
Endoscopic Ultrasound can detect and diagnose a range of diseases and conditions. It is commonly used to evaluate and diagnose cancers of the digestive tract, including oesophageal, gastric, pancreatic, biliary and rectal cancers. EUS is also useful in identifying gallbladder and bile duct diseases, as well as evaluating certain gastrointestinal conditions like pancreatitis and chronic abdominal pain.
How to Prepare for Your Endoscopic Ultrasound?
To prepare for an Endoscopic Ultrasound, your doctor will provide specific instructions. Typically, you will need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure, avoid eating or drinking anything. If a lower EUS is planned, you may be asked to avoid certain foods and drink a special solution to cleanse your colon thoroughly. Your doctor may also ask you to adjust your medications temporarily. It’s essential to inform your healthcare team about any allergies, medical conditions, or previous adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
What Happens During an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
During the procedure, you will be given a sedative to help you relax, and your throat may be numbed with a local anaesthetic. The echoendoscope, with the ultrasound probe, will be carefully inserted through your mouth or rectum into the digestive tract. The ultrasound waves emitted by the probe will create detailed images, allowing the doctor to examine the organs and take biopsies if necessary.
Are You Awake for an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
Most patients receive sedation before the procedure, which means you will be in a sleepy, relaxed state during the Endoscopic Ultrasound. The sedation helps ensure the procedure is comfortable and minimises any potential discomfort.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
After an Endoscopic Ultrasound, you will be monitored briefly until the sedative wears off. It is normal to experience mild bloating, gas, or a sore throat after the procedure, but these effects should subside quickly. You may need someone to drive you home since the sedative can impair your coordination and reflexes.
How Painful Is an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
An Endoscopic Ultrasound is generally not painful due to the sedation provided. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. Some individuals might experience minor throat irritation or mild discomfort after the examination, but this is temporary and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Endoscopic Ultrasound is a valuable and minimally invasive medical procedure that enables doctors to examine and diagnose various digestive and adjacent organ conditions. By utilising a combination of endoscopy and ultrasound technology, this procedure offers detailed insights without causing significant pain or discomfort. Proper preparation and following your doctor’s instructions can ensure a smooth and successful Endoscopic Ultrasound experience.
