Endoscopic Ultrasound

An endoscopic ultrasound can help your gastroenterologist determine the cause of your abdominal pain when results from a physical exam and other tests are inconclusive. Tahmina Haq, MD, is a fellowship-trained endoscopic gastroenterologist who performs endoscopic ultrasound testing at Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute in Anaheim, Santa Ana, Fullerton, and Huntington Beach, California. For expert clinical care from a compassionate physician, call the office or request an appointment online today.

What is an endoscopic ultrasound?

An endoscopic ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that combines an endoscopy with ultrasound imaging to evaluate the gastrointestinal (GI) system. 

Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a procedure that uses a special scope to look at the lining of your digestive tract. 

Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound wave technology to create images of your internal organs, including the wall of the bowel and nearby structures. 

For an endoscopic ultrasound, the gastroenterologist uses a special endoscope with ultrasound technology. 

Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute may perform an upper or lower endoscopic ultrasound. During an upper endoscopic ultrasound, the gastroenterologist looks at the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine, along with the pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

For a lower endoscopic ultrasound, they evaluate the large intestine, bladder, reproductive organs, and nearby lymph nodes.

Why would I need an endoscopic ultrasound?

The gastroenterologist at Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute or referring physician explains why you need an endoscopic ultrasound. The advanced diagnostic test is usually done if results from other tests such as a CT scan, X-ray, upper endoscopy, or colonoscopy are inconclusive.

An endoscopic ultrasound is also used to help determine the stage of cancer, evaluate the pancreas, and diagnose fecal incontinence.

How do I prepare for an endoscopic ultrasound?

Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute provides you with specific instructions on how to prepare for your endoscopic ultrasound. Preparation may depend on whether the gastroenterologist is performing an upper or lower endoscopic ultrasound.

You need to have a clear bowel for the procedure and must stop eating at a set time before your procedure. You may also need to take a laxative to clear food debris and stool.

What can I expect during an endoscopic ultrasound?

The gastroenterologist at Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute discusses the details of your endoscopic ultrasound at your initial consultation so you know what to expect. You’re given a sedative for the procedure so you feel sleepy and relaxed.

During the procedure, your gastroenterologist inserts the ultrasound scope in the mouth or anus to evaluate the structures. The procedure may take 45-60 minutes. 

Afterward, you go to the recovery area, and the gastroenterologist reviews the preliminary findings with you and schedules a follow-up visit if needed to discuss treatments.

Call Advanced Gastroenterology & Liver Institute or schedule your endoscopic ultrasound online today.