Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure that allows a doctor to obtain images and information about the digestive tract and the surrounding tissue and organs.  Ultrasound testing uses sound waves to make a picture of internal organs.

During the procedure, a small ultrasound device is installed on the tip of an endoscope. An endoscope is a small, lighted, flexible tube with a camera attached. By inserting the endoscope and camera into the upper or the lower digestive tract, the doctor is able to obtain high-quality ultrasound images of organs. Because the EUS can get close to the organ(s) being examined, the images obtained with EUS are often more accurate and detailed than images provided by traditional ultrasound which must travel from the outside of the body.

Endoscopic ultrasound may be used to:

• Evaluate stages of cancer.
• Evaluate chronic pancreatitis or other disorders of the pancreas.
• Study abnormalities or tumors in organs, including the gallbladder and liver.
• Study the muscles of the lower rectum and anal canal to determine reasons for fecal incontinence (accidental bowel leakage).
• Study nodules (bumps) in the intestinal wall.