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Endoscopic Ultrasound Provides a Better Look into Solid Tissue

An endoscopic ultrasound, or EUS, combines two ways of imaging: upper endoscopy and ultrasound. A small ultrasound probe on the end of the endoscope produces sound waves, which are translated into images. This allows the doctor to see further into solid tissues where an endoscope cannot travel. In addition to providing a better look, EUS can be used to take tissue samples for biopsy, drain cysts and deliver medications directly to organs.

EUS is helpful for examining several digestive conditions, including:

  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • Bile duct stones
  • Cancer
    (colorectal, esophageal, pancreatic, liver or stomach)
  • Pancreatitis
  • Pancreatic cysts

EUS is especially helpful for looking at potentially cancerous tumors, masses and growths. EUS is often combined with fine needle aspiration (FNA), in which a thin, hollow needle is inserted into suspicious areas. When the needle is removed, it has collected several layers of tissue samples. This process is painless. Because FNA is done with ultrasound guidance, the doctor knows exactly which areas should be sampled. The tissue samples can be studied under a microscope to determine if they are cancerous or not. Without EUS and FNA, an exploratory surgery would need to be performed.

Preparing for an EUS is the same as preparing for an upper endoscopy and involves fasting and pausing certain medications. The entire EUS procedure takes about one hour, and patients can return home after a brief observation period following the procedure. The risks associated with EUS are similar to those of other endoscopic procedures. There is a slight risk for bleeding, infection or tearing of the digestive tract. These risks are minimized when seeking care from a doctor highly experienced in endoscopy such as one at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute. If fine needle aspiration has been done on the pancreas, there is a small risk for pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas.


Endoscopy Services

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  • Upper Endoscopy / Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)

    An upper endoscopy helps doctors look at the esophagus, stomach and first part of the small intestine and can help diagnose a range of conditions.

  • Capsule Endoscopy and Deep Enteroscopy

    A capsule endoscopy allows doctors to see into the small intestine, which can be important in diagnosis gastrointestinal bleeding, polyps and cancer.

  • Colonoscopy / Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

    A colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is a way for doctors to see inside the colon and rectum to identify issues and perform biopsies.

  • Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

    Doctors at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute use ERCP for Pancreas, Gallbladder and Bile Duct Imaging and Advanced Endoscopic Treatment.

  • Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

    Endoscopic Ultrasound. Comprehensive health services are offered at our AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute. We are invested in your long-term health goals.

  • High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA)

    Colorectal Surgeons at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute are HRA Providers (High Resolution Anoscopy) for Anal Cancer Screening.

  • Acid Reflux Measuring Tests

    Doctors at AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute Mickle Center for Reflux and Esophageal Conditions use outpatient tests to measure Acid Reflux.

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Recover Faster With Minimally Invasive and Robotic Surgery

All the surgeons at the Digestive Health Institute (DHI) have a large depth of experience in offering minimally invasive surgery.

Meet The Experts

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Dr. Michael Harris.

Michael Harris

MD

Gastroenterologist

Marian Hanhan

Marian Hanhan

PA-C, MPAS

Physician Assistant

Christina Hill

Christina Hill

MPH, PA-C, MMS

Physician Assistant

Justin R. Lawandales

Justin R. Lawandales

MPH, MSN, ARNP

Nurse Practitioner

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Surgical Consultations For Digestive Cancer Without The Wait

Appointments Within Five Days for Patients with Cancer

At AdventHealth Digestive Institute, we know that after being diagnosed with cancer, patients want and often need to begin treatment quickly. So we make it a priority to offer appointments for cancer surgery consultations within five business days, and often earlier.

Patients who are newly diagnosed with cancer, or have just found out they have cancer again, qualify for this priority access. Our surgeons will make themselves available to see you right away, even for a second opinion. We want to help you start your treatment as soon as possible.

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News and Info

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