Endoscopic Ultrasound Specialist
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ProDigest Gastroenterology & Hepatology Associates
Board Certified Gastroenterologists & Hepatology located in Long Beach, CA, Lakewood, CA
Endoscopic ultrasound is a minimally invasive imaging procedure that evaluates your digestive tract and the surrounding organs. At ProDigest Gastroenterology & Hepatology Associates in Lakewood and Long Beach, California, Mehrdad Saliminejad, MD, performs many advanced endoscopic procedures, including endoscopic ultrasound. For patient-centered care from an experienced and board-certified gastroenterologist, schedule an appointment by calling the office nearest you, or you can book online today.
Endoscopic Ultrasound Q & A
What is an endoscopic ultrasound?
An endoscopic ultrasound is a diagnostic procedure that combines endoscopy and ultrasound testing to look at your digestive tract and surrounding organs.
Endoscopy
In endoscopy, Dr. Saliminejad inserts a scope into your mouth or rectum to see the inner lining of your upper (esophagus, stomach, duodenum) or lower (large intestine) digestive tract.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is an imaging test that uses sound wave technology to create images of your internal organs, including the walls of your digestive tract and the surrounding organs such as your liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
For the endoscopic ultrasound, a tiny ultrasound probe attaches to the endoscope to provide the enhanced imaging.
Why would I need an endoscopic ultrasound?
Dr. Saliminejad explains why you need an endoscopic ultrasound at your consultation. He may recommend the more detailed diagnostic test to find the underlying cause of your abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, or unexpected weight loss.
He may also perform the test to diagnose digestive cancer, gallstone disease, or pancreatic disease. If you have cancer, Dr. Saliminejad may recommend an endoscopic ultrasound to determine the stage of cancer and to see if it has spread to other areas of the body.
What happens during an endoscopic ultrasound?
Dr. Saliminejad reviews what you can expect during your endoscopic ultrasound at your consultation, including how to prepare for the test.
During the procedure, Dr. Saliminejad has you lie on an exam table and provides sedation to keep you relaxed and comfortable. He then inserts the endoscope in your mouth or rectum and slowly advances the tool, capturing the necessary images.
Dr. Saliminejad may also perform a fine needle aspiration (FNA) during your endoscopic ultrasound. He uses the images from the ultrasound to guide a needle and take a biopsy of any suspicious tissue.
Endoscopic ultrasounds usually take less than an hour.
What happens after an endoscopic ultrasound?
After your endoscopic ultrasound, Dr. Saliminejad sends you to the recovery room for monitoring until the sedative wears off. He then reviews the findings from the minimally invasive procedures with you and makes treatment recommendations as needed.
You must arrange to have someone drive you home after your endoscopic ultrasound and plan to take it easy the rest of the day.
Find out more about the endoscopic ultrasound at ProDigest Gastroenterology & Hepatology Associates by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.
