While gastroscopy enables an exact examination of the inner lining of the digestive tract, EUS makes it possible to look deeper and to obtain images of the entire thickness of the intestinal wall.
It is used to examine the upper digestive tract (oesophagus, stomach, duodenum), or the lower digestive tract (the last part of the colon – rectum). An examination of some organs surrounding the gastrointestinal organs is also possible (liver, pancreas, bile ducts, gallbladder …).
The procedure is performed with a thin, flexible tube, called an endoscope, which is inserted under eye guidance through the mouth or anus to the place of interest. Then the ultrasound device is switched on, which generates ultrasonic waves, by means of which an image of the examined tissue or organ is obtained.
The exam is performed by a gastroenterologist – endoscopist, who is a highly qualified specialist for performing such procedures.