Endoscopic ultrasound: diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) comprises several techniques of performing high-frequency ultrasound via an endoscope placed in the gastrointestinal tract (oesophagus, stomach, duodenum and pancreaticobiliary tree and rectum). It has rapidly become an important tool in the investigation of a variety of lumenal disorders as well as locoregional staging of gastrointestinal malignancies. Needle biopsy of peri-intestinal structures, such as lymph nodes and pancreatic masses, can also be performed under real-time ultrasound control. To date, the utilization of this technology in Australia has been limited by cost constraints and a paucity of training opportunities. EUS continues to be a rapidly growing area in clinical gastroenterology. Recent studies continue to define its role, particularly in the loco-regional staging of a variety of malignancies. In addition, new instruments permit tissue sampling and a variety of therapeutic manoeuvres under direct ultrasound guidance.33; 26-32)
Norton
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Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia. iandnorton@hotmail.com
Jones
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D001706:Biopsy / Q000379:methods; D004067:Digestive System Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D019723:Endoscopes; D019160:Endosonography / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis