Endoscopic ultrasound: the key to early cancer detection you need to know about

An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is a procedure where an endoscope is equipped with an ultrasound probe in order to get an accurate, real-time imaged scan of the internal organs. In this article, a consultant hepato-pancreatico-biliary (HBP) surgeon explains the benefits of this procedure, how it can assist in the early diagnosis of cancer.

What is an endoscopic ultrasound?

An endoscopy is when a camera and light that are fitted onto the end of a thin, flexible, long tube (the endoscope), which is inserted into the body through a natural opening such as the mouth or the rectum. From there, doctors are able to examine:

• The respiratory tract (the lungs, throat, larynx, oesophagus, and trachea)
• The lower gastrointestinal tract (the rectum, anus, lower larger intestine, appendix, and colon)
• The hepato-pancreatico-billiary system (the liver, bile duct, pancreas, and gallbladder)

An ultrasound is when high-frequency sound waves are emitted from a probe, which echo back. The distances of the echoes to the probe are recorded and computed to produce an image in real-time as the examination is undergoing. This allows the doctors ample to investigate the organs and detect any abnormal growths.

An EUS is the combination of these two technologies – where an ultrasonic probe is fitted to the end of the endoscope – to provide a closer, very detailed look at areas of interest to doctors.

What are the benefits of an endoscopic ultrasound?

With an EUS, abnormalities can be analysed for their location, composition and characteristics. Furthermore doctors can take tissue samples (biopsies) for further testing for cancerous cells under a microscope, as the tube is hollow which can allow needles to pass through it.

An EUS can be pivotal for early detection of cancer or precancerous risks, and has many benefits over standard ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans as it provides vivid imaging and non-radioactive function. Cancers that are detected earlier have higher survival rates for patients and necessitate less aggressive treatments. Smaller tumours and growths that have yet to spread are easier to remove, which also prevents reoccurrence or progression of cancer.

What happens during an endoscopic ultrasound?

This outpatient procedure takes around 30 minutes and requires patients to abstain from eating up to six hours prior. Depending on where the exam is being conducted, specific instructions are given to the patient so that they can prepare before the day. A patient may choose to be sedated for their comfort, or put under a full anaesthetic. It is a safe procedure but there is a risk of bleeding, soreness around the opening where the scope was inserted, and perforation of the organs or tissues caused by the scope.

If you would like to know more about undergoing an endoscopic ultrasound, you can connect with a specialist via Top Doctors today.