Rectal endoscopic ultrasound is a test that lets your
doctor look at the walls of your lower gastrointestinal tract. This test does not use X-rays or other radiation.
uses a thin, lighted tube that bends. It's called an endoscope, or scope. The
scope has an ultrasound probe and camera at the tip. The doctor gently puts
the scope into your rectum to the area to be examined. The scope can take
pictures of organs and tissues. This checks for problems in the colon, liver,
gallbladder, or pancreas.
The procedure can take up to an hour if a sample of tissue is taken to be tested. This is called a biopsy.
You may go home after your doctor
checks to make sure you are not having any problems.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test
results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Procedures can be stressful. This information will help you understand what you
can expect. And it will help you safely prepare for your procedure.
Go to http://www.healthwise.net/ed
Enter C044 in the search box to learn more about "Endoscopic Ultrasound (Rectal): Before Your Procedure."
Current as of:
August 9, 2016
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
& Brian D. O'Brien, MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
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