Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) of the gastrointestinal system is a sophisticated and powerful procedure that allows the detection and diagnosis of tiny processes, especially within the gastrointestinal tract and adjacent organs, such as the liver, heart, and bile ducts. Additionally, it enables a series of precise therapeutic interventions.
The EUS examination is performed using an endoscope, which is a flexible optical device that is inserted into the gastrointestinal tract through the mouth. This endoscope has an ultrasound transducer at its tip, which allows the examining physician to perform a kind of "internal ultrasound" within the gastrointestinal system.
During the procedure, if necessary, a fine needle may be introduced through the device to sample abnormal tissue, puncture cysts, or administer medication.
Procedure Steps:
Before entering the examination room, the patient is asked to sign an informed consent form (required for all endoscopic procedures), which explains the possible risks and complications. At the beginning of the examination, a numbing agent is sprayed into the throat to reduce discomfort. Then, the patient is asked to lie on their left side.
The endoscopic ultrasound is performed under sedation (sometimes intravenously), which allows the patient to undergo the procedure with minimal discomfort. After sedation, the physician gently advances the endoscope through the mouth and into the gastrointestinal tract, whether it's the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum – depending on the purpose of the examination. Once the desired organ is reached, the physician performs an ultrasound scan. Based on the findings, the physician may decide to take a biopsy or perform other therapeutic procedures.
The duration of the procedure is approximately one hour. Afterward, the patient is taken to the recovery room.
Possible Complications of EUS:
Complications related to the endoscopic procedure are rare. It is possible to experience local irritation and mild pain in the throat, which usually resolves within a day or two. In some cases, there may be slight bleeding from the biopsy site, which is usually mild and stops on its own. In rare instances, there may be perforation of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, an infection could occur after the biopsy.
After the Examination:
After the endoscopic ultrasound, the patient rests in the recovery room. A companion can be present during this time. The recovery period lasts until the sedative's effects wear off.
It's normal to feel bloated after the procedure due to the air introduced during the examination; this sensation typically goes away on its own shortly after the procedure. If a biopsy was performed, fasting is required for three hours. Before discharge, the physician will provide the examination results and instructions for follow-up or further treatment. Biopsy results (if taken) will be delivered to the patient after about two weeks.
Driving is strictly prohibited for at least 12 hours after the procedure. A companion must accompany the patient home.
Biopsy:
If biopsies were taken or a polyp was removed, the patient should call the gastroenterology institute at Tel: 02-6666116 after a month from the examination, and pathology results will be sent to their home address.
If signs of fever above 38 degrees Celsius, abdominal pain, vomiting, or black stools appear, immediate medical attention should be sought.