What is EUS?
EUS stands for Endoscopic Ultrasound. It’s a special test that combines two tools:
- 1. An endoscope – a thin, flexible tube with a camera, which goes inside your body.
- 2. An ultrasound probe – which uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of organs and tissues inside your chest or belly.
So, EUS helps doctors see things deep inside your body with much more detail than a regular ultrasound or scan.
Why is EUS Done?
Doctors use EUS to:
- Look at the pancreas, liver, bile ducts, and gallbladder
- Examine lumps, cysts, lymph nodes or tumors
- Check for causes of abdomen pain or unexplained weight loss
- Stage cancers (to see how far they’ve spread)
- Take small tissue samples (biopsy) for diagnosis
How is EUS Performed?
- 6 hrs fasting is needed before the test.
- You’ll be given medication to make you sleepy and comfortable.
- The doctor gently passes the endoscope through your mouth (for upper EUS) or through your rectum (for lower EUS).
- As it moves along, the ultrasound part of the scope takes real time images from inside your body which the doctor can see on a screen.
- If needed, the doctor can also take a biopsy (a small tissue sample) using a small needle.
Is EUS Painful?
No, you’ll be sedated during the test, so you won’t feel pain.
How Long Does it Take?
Usually 20 to 30 minutes, followed by a short recovery period.
What Are the Risks?
EUS is generally very safe. Rare side effects may include:
- Sore throat (for 1-2 days)
- Mild bloating
- Rarely, bleeding, infection or perforation (especially if a biopsy is done)
What Happens After EUS?
- You’ll be kept under observation until the sedation wears off
- You’ll need someone to take you home
Summary:
EUS is a safe and effective way for doctors to see inside your body and get accurate information, especially about your pancreas, liver, and digestive system. If needed, they can also take small samples during the same procedure. It’s usually quick, painless, and helps avoid more invasive tests or surgery.
