ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND

It is a procedure that helps in assessment of the gastrointestinal & lung diseases. Endoscopic Ultrasound is a combination of two procedures - endoscopy and ultrasound. Endoscopic ultrasound helps diagnose upper & lower digestive disorders. EUS is an outpatient procedure and takes about one to two hours.

Why is EUS required?

EUS can help diagnose many gastrointestinal disorders such as:

• Identify Stage of colon cancer, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, stomach caner & rectal cancer.
• Pancreatic disorders such as chronic pancreatitis
• Detect abnormalities in gallbladder and liver
• Detect stones in biliary ducts
• Identify causes behind accidental bowel leakage
• Analyse Nodules in the lining of the intestines

How to prepare for the procedure?

The patient has to follow specific instructions prior to the procedure.

• Patients undergoing EUS of Upper GI tract are recommended to not consume food or beverages for at least 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure
• Patients undergoing EUS of lower GI tract need to have their colon cleared and may need to use laxatives or enema. They are also asked to follow a liquid for a day prior to the procedure
• Patients may also be asked to temporarily stop medications.

What to expect during an Endoscopic Ultrasound?

During the procedure, a sedative is administered to the patient through an IV. The doctor will then insert the endoscope into the patient’s mouth in case of Upper GI and into the patient’s rectum in case of lower GI. The doctor performs a biopsy