Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

Overview

Endoscopic ultrasound is a highly specialized procedure that allows the physician to see the structures behind the walls of the gastrointestinal tract. It is instrumental in identifying lesions, masses and enlarged lymph nodes.

Endoscopic Ultrasound with FNA

EUS can utilize fine needle aspiration (FNA) to obtain tissue or cells to assist in diagnosis. EUS/FNA has proven to be a valuable tool in the assessment and diagnosis of GI, pancreatic and pulmonary diseases. The procedure facilitates a more precise detection of premalignant disorders, early-stage cancers and other disease processes. If diagnosed and treated at an early stage, cancer survival rates are high; therefore, early detection and treatment are critical. EUS/FNA allows physicians to more accurately determine the stage of various cancers, without the need for surgery. Anorectal EUS is part of the evaluation for fecal incontinence, demonstrating muscle structure or defects.