Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)
Ultrasound from the inside, for the organs a standard scope cannot see.
Endoscopic ultrasound combines an endoscope with a small ultrasound probe at its tip. Positioned in the stomach or small intestine, the probe sits right next to the pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder, liver, and nearby lymph nodes, producing far more detailed images than an ultrasound taken through the skin. It can also guide a fine needle to take a tissue sample in the same procedure, which often avoids the need for surgery to obtain a diagnosis.
Why It Might Be Recommended
- A pancreatic cyst or mass found on CT or MRI
- Suspected bile duct stones or bile duct abnormalities
- Staging of cancers of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, or rectum
- Growths beneath the lining of the digestive tract
- Unexplained findings on imaging that need a closer look or a tissue sample
Diagnostic and Interventional EUS
Most EUS procedures are diagnostic: imaging and, where needed, sampling. In selected cases, EUS can also be used to treat a problem directly, such as draining a fluid collection. Whether that applies to you depends on what we find and will be discussed with you beforehand.
Who Performs It
EUS requires specialized training beyond a standard gastroenterology fellowship. At Elite Gastro it is performed by Dr. Mina Elnemr, who completed an additional fellowship in therapeutic endoscopy and previously established the therapeutic endoscopy service at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Michigan.
Preparing for It
Preparation is the same as for an upper endoscopy: a period of fasting beforehand, with the details on our upper endoscopy instructions page. Tell us ahead of time if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or GLP-1 medications, since some need to be adjusted or paused, particularly if a tissue sample may be taken.
You must have a responsible adult to drive you home. The procedure is done under sedation.
Afterward
Recovery is similar to an upper endoscopy: a mild sore throat and some bloating are common. Plan to rest for the remainder of the day. If a tissue sample was taken, we will review the results with you once pathology is complete, and share them with your referring physician.
Severe abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting after an EUS needs prompt attention. During office hours, call us. After hours, go to the nearest emergency room, since we do not have a physician on call.
For Referring Physicians
We accept referrals for EUS evaluation. Please fax the referral, relevant imaging reports, and recent labs to 813-644-3307, or call 813-600-3709 to discuss a patient.
Related: ERCP · Upper endoscopy · Dr. Mina Elnemr