EUS stands for Endoscopic Ultrasound. It is a medical procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound techniques to provide detailed imaging and diagnostic information about the gastrointestinal tract and nearby organs.
Endoscopy involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) through the mouth or rectum to view the gastrointestinal tract. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of internal organs. During an EUS, an ultrasound probe is attached to the endoscope, allowing the doctor to obtain high-resolution images of the gastrointestinal tract and surrounding tissues.
EUS is commonly used to evaluate conditions such as pancreatic and biliary diseases, gastrointestinal tumors, and lymph nodes near the gastrointestinal tract. It can help in the detection, staging, and guiding management decisions related to these diseases.
The procedure is typically performed under sedation and may be done on an outpatient basis. It provides real-time images, allowing the doctor to visualize the target area and take biopsies or collect samples of fluid or tissue if necessary. EUS is considered a relatively safe procedure with few complications.
Overall, EUS is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing various gastrointestinal and adjacent organ diseases. Its ability to provide detailed imaging and obtain tissue samples makes it an essential procedure in the field of gastroenterology and oncology.
