At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, we offer advanced Esophageal and Gastric Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) procedures to diagnose and manage various gastrointestinal conditions. EUS combines endoscopy and ultrasound to provide detailed imaging of the esophagus, stomach, and nearby structures, allowing for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Procedure:

During an EUS procedure, a thin, flexible tube with an ultrasound probe at its tip is passed through the mouth and into the esophagus or stomach. High-frequency sound waves emitted by the probe create detailed images of the gastrointestinal tract and surrounding tissues. This allows our gastroenterologists to visualize abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, or enlarged lymph nodes and obtain tissue samples for biopsy if necessary.

Symptoms:

Esophageal and gastric EUS may be recommended for patients experiencing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain, or suspected gastrointestinal malignancies. EUS helps identify the underlying cause of these symptoms and guides appropriate treatment decisions.

Diagnosis:

EUS is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as esophageal cancer, gastric tumors, pancreatic cysts, and submucosal lesions. The detailed images provided by EUS help differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, aiding in treatment planning and prognosis assessment.

Post-Procedure Care:

After an EUS procedure, patients are monitored for a brief period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most patients can resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure. However, they may be advised to avoid strenuous activities and certain medications for a brief period. Our medical team provides detailed post-procedure instructions and is available to address any concerns or questions.

 

Is EUS a painful procedure?

EUS is usually well-tolerated and performed under sedation to minimize discomfort. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during or after the procedure.

 

How long does an EUS procedure take?

The duration of an EUS procedure varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether any additional interventions, such as fine-needle aspiration or biopsy, are performed. On average, the procedure takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes.

 

Are there any risks associated with EUS?

EUS is considered a safe procedure with minimal risks. Potential complications, such as bleeding or infection, are rare but will be discussed with the patient before the procedure.

 

Can I eat or drink before an EUS?

To ensure clear visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, patients are usually instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for several hours before the procedure. Specific fasting instructions will be provided by the healthcare team.

 

How soon will I receive the results of my EUS?

The results of an EUS procedure, including any biopsy or cytology findings, are typically available within a few days. Your gastroenterologist will discuss the results with you and recommend further management as needed.