Services · Endoscopic Ultrasound
Detailed, close-up imaging of the pancreas, bile ducts and digestive tract wall, with the ability to take precise biopsies in the same procedure.
What Is EUS?
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) combines endoscopy with a small ultrasound probe on the tip of the scope. Because the probe sits right next to the organs being examined, EUS produces far more detailed images than an ultrasound performed through the skin.
When needed, Dr. Awan can use a fine needle to sample tissue or fluid (EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration or biopsy) for an accurate diagnosis.
Reasons for EUS
EUS is often recommended when other imaging, such as CT or MRI, needs a closer look.
Characterizing cysts and sampling fluid to guide follow-up.
Evaluating and biopsying masses found on CT or MRI.
Examining growths beneath the lining of the esophagus, stomach or rectum.
Determining how deeply a tumor has grown in the esophagus, stomach, pancreas or rectum.
Detecting small stones that other imaging may miss.
Assessing changes in the pancreas from long-term inflammation.
Diagnosis & Treatment
EUS is an outpatient procedure performed with sedation.
Fast as instructed before your exam and review medications, especially blood thinners, with our team.
You receive sedation. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether a biopsy is needed.
You rest while sedation wears off. A mild sore throat is common. Please arrange a ride home.
Dr. Awan shares the imaging findings. Biopsy results usually take several days.
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging
The pancreas sits deep in the abdomen, which makes it hard to see clearly with standard imaging. EUS places the ultrasound probe just millimeters away, providing exceptional detail.
EUS-guided fine-needle aspiration lets Dr. Awan obtain tissue from the pancreas, lymph nodes or other areas without surgery, so you can get a clear diagnosis sooner.
For patients with cancer of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas or rectum, EUS helps determine the stage of disease, which guides decisions about surgery, chemotherapy or other treatments.
Many pancreatic cysts are found by chance on scans done for other reasons. EUS helps tell which cysts are harmless and which need closer monitoring or treatment.
FAQ
A regular ultrasound is done from outside the body. EUS places the ultrasound probe inside the digestive tract, right next to the organs, giving much more detailed images.
EUS is performed with sedation, so most patients are comfortable. You may have a mild sore throat afterward.
Most EUS exams take 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether a biopsy is performed.
Dr. Awan can share the imaging findings right after the procedure. Biopsy results usually take several days.
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Get precise answers about pancreatic and bile duct conditions. Call our Denton office today.