Endosonography
It is a special technique of clinical examination, which allows performing an “ultrasound imaging” from the inside in an endoscopic way (gastroscopy, rectoscopy). Amongst others, it is applied for:
- fine examination of oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, rectum
- diagnostics, staging of benign and malignant tumours
- targeted tissue sampling from tumours and lymph nodes
- targeted non-surgical drainage of pancreatic cysts
What does an examination look like and what should I pay attention to?
If your oesophagus, stomach or pancreas should be examined by means of an endoscopic ultrasound, a special endoscope, similar as in the case of gastroscopy, will be inserted through the mouth.
The examination is performed on an empty stomach. Your last meal should have been taken at least six hours ago, whereas it is allowed to drink a glass of water after getting up in the morning.
As a rule, the examination lasts 45 minutes and is absolutely painless. Due to the long duration of the procedure, we still recommend a sedative injection. The patient will sleep during the procedure and then he can rest in the recovery room. Because of the special medication (propofol), there is no long after effect, as with valium-related preparations. However, for legal reasons, it is not allowed to drive a car for 24 hours after the injection.
It is allowed to eat and drink after the examination.
In case of a planned puncture of the diseased tissue, your general practitioner should inform you about possible risks (with a declaration of consent). We are also pleased to be at your disposal. In this case, it is necessary that your general practitioner measures your blood count and blood coagulation beforehand and that you bring these values to the procedure.
It is advisable to stop taking Aspirin-containing preparations or medication, impairing blood coagulation, such as e.g. Plavix® (clopidogrel), 5-7 days before the procedure. Your physician and we as well (especially with Marcumar patients) will be pleased to answer any of your questions.
Upon agreement with you, an inpatient follow-up treatment after the puncture can be reasonable or even necessary.
If your rectum should be examined by means of an endoscopic ultrasound, there are no special measures to be taken. The preparation takes place in the clinic, where you will get a clyster administered about 30 minutes before the planned procedure. A sedative injection is not necessary, but can be made upon your request.
