Prior to your procedure, you will need to follow specific preparation instructions provided by your doctor.
Prior to the procedure:
- If you are having EUS of the upper gastrointestinal tract
- you may not eat or drink for six to eight hours prior to the procedure to insure that the intestinal tract is clear of food products.
- If you are having EUS of the lower gastrointestinal tract
- you will need to follow a liquid diet followed by either an enema on the day of the procedure or a laxative preparation, similar to a colonoscopy, on the day prior to the procedure.
If you have any medication allergies, please inform your physician.
Your physician will instruct you regarding any prescription medications you are taking. In general, Coumadin (Warfarin) should be held five days prior to the procedure, and Plavix (Clopidogrel) should be held seven days prior to the procedure. Holding these medications should be discussed with your physician prior to the procedure.
On the day of your procedure
- Arrive one to two hours prior to the scheduled procedure time to allow ample time for registration and preparation.
- An IV will be inserted to allow administration of fluids and sedatives.
- If EUS is performed on the upper gastrointestinal tract, generally a topical anesthetic will be applied to the throat since the endoscope passes through the mouth.
- The physician will then insert the endoscope through either the mouth or rectum, observing both the endoscopic and ultrasound images on a nearby monitor.
- A biopsy (FNA) will be performed, if necessary.
After the procedure
- You will be transported to recovery where your physician will discuss the findings with you. You may then return home, accompanied by a responsible chaperone, and rest for the remainder of the day.