The precision offered by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) allows our Raleigh-based gastroenterologists to obtain a clear view of your internal organs, aiding in accurate diagnosis and the creation of a tailored treatment plan.

Here, we’ll break down the essentials of endoscopic ultrasound: what it is, when it’s needed, the procedure, and how to prepare.

What Is an Endoscopic Ultrasound?

An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound technology. Using a flexible tube (endoscope) with an ultrasound probe at the tip, the procedure emits high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs like the pancreas, liver, and lymph nodes.

What to Expect During an Endoscopic Ultrasound

Sedation ensures comfort during the procedure. Unlike traditional endoscopy, where partial awareness may be required, EUS involves full sedation for a relaxed experience. Recovery time is brief; after the procedure, you’ll be monitored until the sedative wears off. You may experience a sore throat or mild bloating, which resolves within a day. Since you’ll be sedated, please arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

How Is EUS Different from Standard Endoscopy?

While both EUS and endoscopy involve an endoscope, they serve different purposes. Traditional endoscopy inspects the inner lining of the digestive tract to identify conditions like inflammation or ulcers. EUS, however, extends beyond surface-level inspection, generating in-depth images of surrounding tissues and nearby organs, making it especially useful for diagnosing deeper abnormalities.

What Happens During an Endoscopic Ultrasound?

For an EUS, you’ll be comfortably positioned, typically on your left side. The endoscope will be gently inserted through your mouth, traveling down the esophagus and into the stomach and intestines, projecting real-time images on a monitor for detailed assessment by our expert gastroenterologists. EUS is instrumental in detecting tumors, cysts, and other irregularities.

When Is an EUS Needed?

EUS can be recommended for various conditions, including:

• Cancer Diagnosis and Staging: Helps evaluate cancer’s spread and guides treatment options.

• Pancreatic Disorders: Effective in diagnosing pancreatic tumors, cysts, and pancreatitis.

• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Useful for identifying sources of abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding, and assessing conditions like Crohn’s and celiac disease.

• Liver Abnormalities: Assists in identifying liver lesions and their nature.

• Lymph Node Evaluation: Crucial for assessing lymph nodes in cancer diagnosis and treatment planning.

Endoscopies in Maryland

Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any digestive or gastroenterology issues you may have and preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information about treating polyps, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.