What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Preparation
   • Fasting for 6–8 hours before the procedure is required to ensure an empty stomach.
   • Inform your doctor about any medications or medical conditions, as adjustments may be necessary.
2. Procedure Steps
   • The procedure is typically performed under sedation for comfort.
   • A thin, flexible tube (endoscope) with an ultrasound probe at the tip is inserted through the mouth or rectum, depending on the area being examined.
   • The ultrasound probe produces high-frequency sound waves, creating detailed images of the digestive tract and nearby organs.
   • If needed, a fine needle may be used to collect tissue or fluid samples for further testing.
3. Duration
   • The procedure usually takes 30–90 minutes, depending on the complexity.
4. Recovery
   • After the procedure, patients are monitored until the sedative wears off.
   • Normal activities can typically be resumed the following day, although driving or operating machinery should be avoided for 24 hours if sedatives were used.

Benefits

• Provides high-resolution images of the digestive tract and surrounding organs.
• Allows for early detection and staging of cancers.
• Enables minimally invasive biopsies for accurate diagnoses.
• Guides therapeutic interventions, such as draining cysts or abscesses.

Risks
EUS is generally safe, but potential risks include:

• Mild discomfort or sore throat after the procedure.
• Bleeding or infection, especially after fine-needle aspiration.
• Rare complications such as perforation or adverse reactions to sedation.

When to Contact a Doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain or chest discomfort.
• Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools.