What is Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)?
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is an advanced diagnostic procedure that combines endoscopy with high-frequency ultrasound imaging. A special endoscope with an ultrasound transducer at its tip is passed into the digestive tract, allowing detailed imaging of the gastrointestinal wall, surrounding organs (pancreas, liver, bile ducts, lymph nodes), and blood vessels.
Because the ultrasound probe is positioned adjacent to the structures of interest rather than externally through the abdominal wall, EUS provides far higher resolution than standard abdominal ultrasound, making it one of the most powerful diagnostic tools in gastroenterology.
When is EUS Recommended?
- Evaluation of pancreatic masses, cysts, or pancreatitis
- Assessment of bile duct stones or strictures
- Staging of upper GI cancers (oesophageal, gastric, rectal)
- Investigation of submucosal gastrointestinal lesions
- Assessment of unexplained abdominal pain with unclear CT/MRI findings
- Tissue sampling via EUS-guided FNA or FNB (fine needle aspiration/biopsy)
- Evaluation of adrenal gland lesions
- Drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts (EUS-guided)
What Happens During EUS?
Preparation
You fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure. IV access is established for sedation medications.
Sedation
Conscious or deep sedation is administered to ensure comfort throughout the examination.
Ultrasound Imaging
The EUS scope is advanced to the area of interest. Real-time ultrasound images are obtained and interpreted by the specialist.
FNA/FNB Sampling (if indicated)
Using ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is passed through the endoscope to obtain tissue samples for pathological analysis.
Recovery
You recover in a supervised area. A responsible adult must drive you home. Results are discussed at follow-up.