Esophageal Endoscopic Ultrasound

What is Esophageal EUS?
Esophageal endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure in which a small flexible tube with an ultrasound machine on the tip is placed inside your esophagus. The ultrasound is used to examine growths or tumors that are located in the wall of the esophagus or in the structures surrounding the esophagus.

If abnormalities are found, the ultrasound can also be used to guide the placement of small needle in the abnormal tissue in order to obtain a biopsy.

Why is EUS ordered and what information will it give my doctors?
Esophageal EUS is ordered to evaluate possible tumors involving the esophagus or surrounding structures in the chest. The procedure will help your physician determine where the abnormality is located and, if it is a tumor, will help determine the extent of the tumor.

This information is useful in that it can help plan management. Knowing the extent of the tumor or abnormality will help your physician determine whether surgery is necessary and, if surgery is planned, whether treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy should be given prior to surgery.

Specific situations in which this procedure is used include:

• Esophageal tumors
• Abnormal lymph nodes in the chest
• Some forms of lung cancer
• Evaluating some abnormalities seen during upper endoscopy

How do I prepare for Esophageal EUS?
You should have nothing to eat or drink after midnight on the evening before the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?
You will be given a sedative to relax you. The physician will place a small flexible tube into your throat and down into your esophagus. Ultrasound will then be used to examine the area of abnormality. In some situations a biopsy (obtaining a sample of tissue) is necessary. If this is to be obtained, this will be done during the procedure using the ultrasound to guide placement of a small needle.

What happens after the procedure?
You will be observed for approximately one to two hours and then may go home. You will not be able to drive or do anything that requires coordination or quick response for the remainder of the day. You will need to have somebody to be with you at the hospital and drive your home.

What are the benefits of this procedure?
This procedure will help determine what the abnormality is and will also help your physician plan further care.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?
Your esophagus or stomach may be punctured. The procedure may be unsuccessful in obtaining the information required. There is a risk of infection and bleeding. You should ask your doctor how these risks apply to you.

When should I call the doctor?
Call the doctor immediately if:

• You develop severe abdominal pain.
• You have persistent nausea and vomiting.
• You develop a fever.

How long does the procedure take?
The procedure generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

How will I get the results of this test?
Your physician will tell you what was found during your test. However, if biopsies were taken, it takes several days to obtain the results. You should discuss with your physician whether these results will be communicated to you directly or to the referring physician.

Duke Cancer Patient Education Program, 4/00