Diagnostic Applications

1. Gastrointestinal cancer staging : Evaluate tumor size, depth, and spread.

2. Pancreatic disorders : Diagnose pancreatic cancer, pancreatitis, and cysts.

3. Gastrointestinal wall abnormalities : Evaluate thickening, inflammation, or tumors.

4. Submucosal lesions : Diagnose lesions, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).

Therapeutic Applications

1. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) : Collect tissue samples for cytology or histology.

2. Fine-needle injection (FNI) : Inject therapeutic agents, such as chemotherapy or antibiotics.

3. Celiac plexus block : Relieve abdominal pain by injecting a neurolytic agent.

4. Pancreatic pseudocyst drainage : Drain fluid collections in the pancreas.

Procedure

1. Preparation : Patient fasts for 6-8 hours before the procedure.

2. Sedation : Patient receives sedation to relax during the procedure.

3. Endoscope insertion : The endoscope is inserted through the mouth and guided to the target area.

4. Ultrasound imaging : High-frequency sound waves produce detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues.

5. Biopsy or intervention : The endoscopist performs a biopsy, FNA, FNI, or other therapeutic interventions as needed.

Benefits

1. Minimally invasive : Reduces risk of complications and recovery time.

2. High-resolution imaging : Provides detailed images of the digestive tract and surrounding tissues.

3. Accurate diagnosis : Enables accurate diagnosis and staging of gastrointestinal disorders.

4. Therapeutic interventions : Offers minimally invasive treatment options for various conditions.

Risks and Complications

1. Bleeding : Risk of bleeding from biopsy or intervention.

2. Infection : Risk of infection from biopsy or intervention.

3. Pancreatitis : Risk of pancreatitis from EUS-guided interventions.

4. Adverse reactions : Risk of adverse reactions to sedation or other medications.