Overview

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) is a cutting-edge diagnostic test that combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide clear images of the digestive system and surrounding organs. An endoscope with an ultrasound probe at its tip is inserted through the mouth into the oesophagus, stomach, or small intestine. The ultrasound provides clear images of the pancreas, bile ducts, lymph nodes, and layers of the digestive wall. EUS is very helpful for detecting tumours, cysts, gallstones, and other abnormalities that aren't easily seen on regular imaging. It can also help with fine-needle aspiration (FNA), which is used to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.

Why It's Done
EUS is done to look into unexplained stomach pain, possible tumours in the pancreas or digestive tract, problems with the bile duct, or swollen lymph nodes. It helps determine how deep and wide cancers are, and it supports biopsies to get the right diagnosis. The procedure is also helpful for finding cystic lesions or chronic pancreatitis. Early and accurate diagnosis helps with planning treatment.

What to Expect?
Patients are instructed to fast for a few hours before EUS to allow clear visualization of the digestive tract. A review of medicines, especially blood thinners, is done. During the procedure, the patient is given sedation or general anaesthesia to make them more comfortable. The endoscope is carefully pushed through the mouth and directed to the area of interest. The ultrasound probe captures images of structures inside the body. If needed, a thin needle is put through the scope to get tissue samples. The process usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. After that, patients are watched until the sedation wears off. You might feel mild throat pain or bloating for a short time.

Recovery & Outlook
Most patients go home the same day and are back to normal activities within 24 hours. EUS is a safe and highly accurate way to diagnose and stage digestive diseases, helping doctors make informed treatment decisions.