What is EUS?
Endoscopic ultrasound combines endoscopy with a high-frequency ultrasound probe. Because the probe sits right next to the organ being examined, it gives very detailed images of the pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder, the layers of the gut wall and nearby lymph nodes.
Common reasons for EUS
- Pancreatic cysts or masses, and chronic pancreatitis
- Suspected bile duct stones not seen on ultrasound
- Lumps under the lining of the stomach or oesophagus
- Staging of certain gut cancers
- Fine-needle aspiration or biopsy (EUS-FNA/FNB)
- Draining fluid collections after pancreatitis
Conditions this helps with
Frequently asked questions
A normal endoscopy shows the inner surface of the gut. EUS adds ultrasound, so it can see through the wall to organs and structures beyond it, such as the pancreas.
Yes, EUS is done under sedation and most patients go home the same day.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Shivam Kalia MBBS, MD (Medicine), DM (Gastroenterology) · Consultant Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist