Endosonography is an imaging method that combines ultrasound and endoscopy techniques. In this method, it is possible to examine the internal organs in detail with an ultrasound probe placed at the end of the endoscope. Endosonography is generally used for the diagnosis of masses and lesions in internal organs such as the stomach, intestines, liver, and gallbladder.
What is Endosonography (Endoscopic Ultrasonography)?
Endosonography is an imaging technique that allows detailed examination of internal organs through the end of an endoscope. In this method, high-resolution images are obtained using ultrasound waves, providing information about the structure, size, and pathological conditions of organs.
Endosonography provides detailed information about structures such as the pancreas, bile ducts, stomach, esophagus, and lymph nodes. This enables the early diagnosis of serious health issues such as cancer and facilitates accurate treatment planning.
For Which Diseases Is Endosonography (EUS) Used in Diagnosis?
Endosonography allows for a detailed examination of the digestive system and surrounding organs. With this method, superficial endoscopic images and deep tissue structures can be evaluated simultaneously.
Pancreatic Diseases
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Pancreatic tumors and cysts: EUS can display small lesions in pancreatic tissue in high resolution.
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Chronic pancreatitis: It can facilitate the early detection of changes in tissue structure.
Biliary Tract and Gallbladder Problems
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Gallstones and bile duct obstructions: The location and size of the stones can be visualized.
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Bile duct tumors: It can be used for early diagnosis and staging.
Stomach and Esophagus Diseases
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Stomach tumors: The depth of the tumor in the stomach wall and its spread to surrounding tissues can be evaluated.
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Esophageal cancer: It plays a role in early stage determination and treatment planning.
Lymph Node Evaluation
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Enlargements of lymph nodes in the abdominal and chest cavities can be examined with EUS.
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If necessary, a fine-needle aspiration biopsy can be performed in the same session to confirm the diagnosis.
Cancer Staging
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In cases of stomach, pancreatic, esophageal, colon cancer and rectal cancer, the spread of the tumor to surrounding tissues or lymph nodes can be determined in detail.
How is Endosonography Performed?
Endosonography can be performed on both the upper and lower digestive systems. During the procedure, which averages 30 minutes, the patient receives analgesics and sedatives. The EUS procedure is conducted as an outpatient procedure. After a few hours of observation, the patient is discharged and can resume their normal daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there pain during endosonography?
Since endosonography is performed under sedation or mild anesthesia, no pain or discomfort is felt during the procedure. Post-procedure, there may be slight throat irritation or difficulty swallowing, but this resolves quickly.
How should one eat before endosonography?
Fasting is required for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure, and it is important to inform the doctor about any medications being taken. Patients on blood thinners may need to temporarily discontinue them based on their doctor's advice.
Can endosonography cause complications?
Endosonography is a safe method with a low risk of complications. Rarely, throat irritation and swallowing difficulties may occur, which typically resolve in a short time.
For which diseases is endosonography preferred in diagnosis?
It is used in evaluating masses, cysts, and tumors in regions such as the pancreas, bile ducts, stomach, esophagus, gallbladder, and lymph nodes. It is also applied for diagnostic purposes such as cancer staging and biopsy guidance.