Published: May 16, 2007
Updated: Aug. 22, 2011
Esophageal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure in which a small flexible tube with an ultrasound machine on the tip is placed inside your esophagus. The ultrasound is used to examine growths or tumors that are located in the wall of the esophagus or in the structures surrounding the esophagus.
If abnormalities are found, the ultrasound can also be used to guide the placement of small needle in the abnormal tissue in order to obtain a biopsy.
Esophageal EUS is ordered to evaluate possible tumors involving the esophagus or surrounding structures in the chest. The procedure will help your physician determine where the abnormality is located and, if it is a tumor, will help determine the extent of the tumor.
This information is useful in that it can help plan management. Knowing the extent of the tumor or abnormality will help your physician determine whether surgery is necessary and, if surgery is planned, whether treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy should be given prior to surgery.
Specific situations in which this procedure is used include:
You should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight on the evening before the procedure.
You will be given a sedative to relax you. The physician will place a small flexible tube into your throat and down into your esophagus. Ultrasound will then be used to examine the area of abnormality. In some situations a biopsy (obtaining a sample of tissue) is necessary. If this is to be obtained, this will be done during the procedure using the ultrasound to guide placement of a small needle.
You will be observed for approximately one to two hours and then may go home. You will not be able to drive or do anything that requires coordination or quick response for the remainder of the day. You will need to have somebody to be with you at the hospital and drive your home.
This procedure will help determine what the abnormality is and will also help your physician plan further care.
Your esophagus or stomach may be punctured. The procedure may be unsuccessful in obtaining the information required. There is a risk of infection and bleeding. You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.
Call the doctor immediately if:
The procedure generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Your physician will tell you what was found during your test. However, if biopsies were taken, it takes several days to obtain the results. You should discuss with your physician whether these results will be communicated to you directly or to the referring physician.
Duke Cancer Patient Education Program, 4/00