Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a minimally invasive procedure to assess digestive (gastrointestinal) and lung diseases. A special endoscope uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of the lining and walls of your digestive tract and chest, nearby organs such as the pancreas and liver, and lymph nodes.
During EUS your doctor passes a thin, flexible tube (endoscope) through your mouth and through your digestive tract. A small ultrasound device (transducer) in the tube produces sound waves that create a precise image of surrounding tissue, including lymph nodes in the chest. The endoscope is then gradually withdrawn.
An EUS does not usually hurt but it can be a little uncomfortable, particularly when you first swallow the endoscope.
The procedure usually lasts from 20-45 minutes, but can be shorter or longer. The vast majority of patients do not feel or experience any discomfort during the procedure, as they are usually asleep during the procedure.
EUS uses a special endoscope with an ultrasound probe attached. Our doctors use EUS to evaluate and diagnose upper and lower digestive tract disorders. EUS takes approximately one to two hours and you can return home when it is finished.