Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) involves passing a thin tube (endoscope) either through the mouth, down the esophagus and into the stomach or into the rectum. The tube has an ultrasound device, a light and a tiny camera. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of internal parts of the body. EUS allows your doctor to see the tissue layers beneath the surface of the GI tract and also nearby organs and structures.

For parts of the body that are harder to see with an ultrasound from the outside, doctors use ultrasound devices that go inside the body. With EUS, your doctor can check for inflammation, scarring, cysts and noncancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) tumors. Your doctor may also take a sample of your cells (biopsy) or fluids during the EUS.

What to expect from an endoscopic ultrasound

Before your procedure, you will be asked not to eat or drink for a short period of time. You also might need to avoid certain medications. EUS is an outpatient procedure. You’ll be sedated with medication given through a needle in your arm (intravenously, or IV). Any discomfort should be minor. Your doctor will insert the tube into your mouth, or through the rectum depending on the area in question. As the endoscope goes through your digestive system, your doctor will look at the images on different computer screens. The procedure usually takes 10 to 30 minutes.

Recovery from endoscopic ultrasound

You’ll be monitored for an hour after sedation, and you’ll need someone to drive you home. Usually, you can return to most normal activities the next day. You might notice a sore throat for a day or two after the upper exam.