What is rectal endoscopic ultrasound?
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.
The doctor 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 or nurse call line 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.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter C044 in the search box to learn more about "Endoscopic Ultrasound (Rectal): Before Your Procedure".