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Endoscopic Ultrasound

Specialists in Gastroenterology Our Services Endoscopic Ultrasound

Specialists in Gastroenterology

Board Certified Gastroenterologists located in St. Louis, MO

If you have symptoms of gallstones, biliary obstruction, and/or chronic pancreatitis, the board-certified gastroenterologists at Specialists in Gastroenterology can evaluate your condition with an endoscopic ultrasound. At Missouri Baptist Medical Center, they provide this advanced imaging technology to create detailed images of your pancreatico-biliary system. It is also used to diagnose and stage malignancies involving the upper GI tract. The information this test reveals helps them provide you with an accurate diagnosis so you can receive the treatment you need to feel better. Call to find out more about endoscopic ultrasound or book a consultation online today.

Endoscopic Ultrasound Q & A

What is an endoscopic ultrasound?

An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a diagnostic test that combines the technologies of endoscopy and ultrasound to evaluate your gastrointestinal tract.

A special endoscope goes into your mouth and down into your digestive tract. The slender scope has a small ultrasound transducer in the tube that uses soundwaves to create images of your inner GI structures.

Why would I need an endoscopic ultrasound?

Specialists in Gastroenterology might recommend an endoscopic ultrasound to diagnose the underlying cause of unexplained symptoms like abdominal pain.

You might also need an endoscopic ultrasound to confirm a diagnosis of:

  • Pancreatic Cysts
  • Gallstones
  • Rectal cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Chronic pancreatitis
  • Common bile duct stones

Specialists in Gastroenterology also uses endoscopic ultrasound technology to diagnose tumors of the foregut, pancreas, and biliary system, as well as common bile duct (CBD) stones, pancreatic duct (PD) stones, and pancreatic cysts.

The detailed images the endoscopic ultrasound creates provides your physician with valuable information about your diagnosis and helps them create a treatment plan to meet your needs.

What can I expect during an endoscopic ultrasound?

An endoscopic ultrasound is an outpatient procedure Specialists in Gastroenterology offers in the office to accurately confirm your diagnosis.

To keep you comfortable and relaxed during your procedure, your physician provides you with IV sedatives. During your procedure, you lie on an exam table and receive supplemental oxygen to support your breathing. The physicians also monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure.

Your provider inserts the endoscope into your mouth and explores your digestive tract while capturing images with the ultrasound probe. If you need diagnostic testing of a cyst or other abnormality, they can insert a fine needle to aspirate fluids for further evaluation during your endoscopic ultrasound.

Once your procedure is complete, you spend time recovering from the anesthesia. Specialists in Gastroenterology will discuss the results of your test and determine if you need further testing or treatment. You can go home soon after to rest.

To find out more about the diagnostic benefits of an endoscopic ultrasound, call Specialists in Gastroenterology or book an appointment using the online booking tool today.