Our Services / EUS

When your gastrointestinal tract symptoms require a more in-depth investigation, your provider at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, might recommend EUS (endoscopic ultrasonography). The practice’s experienced gastroenterologists use EUS for both upper and lower GI tract symptoms, locating the cause of your condition when other methods don’t provide enough information. To find out more, contact your nearest office, one of 13 in Charlotte, Belmont, Concord, Davidson, Matthews, Monroe, Huntersville, University, or Pineville, North Carolina. Call or book online today.

What is EUS?

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a procedure that helps your provider at Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, diagnose digestive system disorders. It involves using a specialized endoscope that has a built-in ultrasound probe. EUS enables your provider to get a more detailed view of your digestive tract.

You might need EUS if you have gallstones or certain types of cancer. EUS also helps diagnose diseases like chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation of the pancreas) or pancreatic cysts (fluid-filled sacs in the pancreas).

How do I prepare for EUS?

The preparation required before your EUS depends on whether it’s an upper GI EUS (where the endoscope goes down your throat) or a lower GI EUS (where the camera goes into your anus).

With an upper GI EUS, your provider might ask you not to eat or drink for at least six hours before your test. Preparation for a lower GI EUS is likely to involve fasting the night before the procedure and taking powerful laxatives to clear out your bowels.

It’s important to follow the instructions your provider gives you. If there’s any food in your stomach or colon, they won’t be able to see the tissues clearly enough.

What happens when I have EUS?

Depending on your health, you might require sedation for your EUS. This ensures you remain calm and relaxed throughout the procedure.

With an upper GI EUS, your provider sprays an anesthetic in your throat, so the endoscope doesn’t make you gag as it goes down. You also have a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

The endoscope is slim and shouldn’t be hard to swallow. When it reaches your stomach, your provider pushes it into your duodenum (the top of your small intestine). They pump air into your stomach to make it easier to see the images the camera is sending back. The air might make you feel bloated and like you need to belch.

As well as the video from the EUS camera, the ultrasound probe sends back signals using echoing sound waves. These signals translate into moving pictures of the body parts near the probe. Your provider might also take small tissue samples for lab testing.

The procedure is much the same for a lower GI EUS, except the endoscope goes into your anus, rectum, and colon.

If you want to learn more about EUS or have concerns about an upcoming procedure, call Carolina Digestive Health Associates, PA, today, or book an appointment online.