Overview

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) combines a standard endoscope with a small ultrasound probe on its tip, allowing extremely close, high-resolution imaging of organs that sit near the stomach and small intestine — particularly the pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder and surrounding lymph nodes. Because the ultrasound probe is right next to these organs rather than scanning through the abdominal wall, EUS can pick up small changes that other scans may miss, and is one of the most accurate tools available for assessing the pancreas and bile duct.

Common reasons for EUS

• Assessing a lump, cyst or abnormality seen on a previous CT or MRI scan, especially of the pancreas
• Investigating suspected bile duct or gallbladder stones not clearly seen on standard ultrasound
• Staging cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, pancreas or bile duct
• Taking a needle biopsy of the pancreas or a nearby lymph node (EUS-guided fine needle aspiration)

What to expect at A Bit of Life Clinic

EUS is performed much like a gastroscopy — as a day procedure under sedation, usually taking 15–45 minutes, with fasting beforehand. Where a biopsy is needed, a fine needle can be passed through the scope to sample tissue with minimal discomfort, avoiding the need for surgery in many cases. Results, including any biopsy findings, are explained clearly, with a follow-up plan tailored to what is found.