Procedures
Endoscopic Ultrasound in Charlotte
Minimally Invasive Diagnostic Tool by Charlotte's Leading Experts
- Straightforward endoscopic diagnostic procedure for organs of the chest and abdomen
- Minimally invasive and provides highly detailed images of organs and tissues
- Trusted endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) expertise backed by 28+ years of serving Charlotte-area patients
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS
What is an Endoscopic Ultrasound?
Endoscopic ultrasound combines traditional endoscopy with ultrasound to provide highly detailed images of internal organs and tissue. During this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with an ultrasound probe is guided through your mouth or anus. When the probe reaches the area being examined, it emits ultrasounds to create detailed images of surrounding tissues.
Unlike traditional endoscopies that rely on camera imaging, EUS can see beyond the digestive tract wall to examine nearby tissues and organs. This makes it ideal for detecting certain cancers and helping diagnose conditions like pancreatic cysts, gallstones, chronic abdominal pain, and other disorders.
Endoscopic ultrasound is often used when conditions are difficult to diagnose or when serious concerns like cancer need to be ruled out. At Charlotte Gastro, we focus on providing clear answers while making you feel informed, comfortable, and safe throughout the process.
Risk Factors
- Family history of GI cancers (pancreatic, stomach, colorectal)
- Chronic pancreatitis or history of pancreatic cysts
- Long-term unexplained abdominal pain
- History of bile duct disorders or gallstones
- Age 50+ with new or changing GI symptoms
Symptoms
- Persistent or unexplained abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing
- Bowel incontinence or changes in bowel habits
THE PROCEDURE
What to Expect
Before the Procedure
1.
Stop eating or drinking after midnight the night before. If we're examining your lower intestines, you will perform traditional bowel prep.
2.
The morning of your procedure, avoid gum, mints, or hard candies (small sips of water are okay).
3.
Arrange for an adult to drive you home — you will be sedated during the procedure.
During and After the Procedure
When you arrive in our office, you'll be sedated for your comfort and safety. The procedure lasts around an hour, though timing varies based on what we're examining. After the procedure is complete, you'll rest in our office for a couple of hours, after which you will be allowed to leave with your adult driver.
Before Your Procedure
- Fast after midnight the night before (upper EUS)
- Complete bowel prep if examining lower intestines
- No gum, mints, or hard candies the morning of
- Arrange an adult driver — sedation is required
What To Bring
- Photo ID and insurance card
- List of current medications and dosages
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- An adult driver for the ride home
TRUST YOUR GUT TO THE EXPERTS
Expert Care by Charlotte's Best Gastroenterologists
Endoscopic ultrasound is an excellent tool for diagnosing and managing complex conditions. At Charlotte Gastro, our team brings 28+ years of GI expertise to every EUS procedure — prioritizing your safety, comfort, and a clear path forward. We're proud to offer endoscopic ultrasound in Charlotte and across the greater Charlotte area, and we'd be honored to be your care team.
Location and Scheduling
Endoscopic ultrasounds are performed at our Randolph Road office. To make an appointment, call (704) 377-4009, and our team will get you scheduled.
Have questions about insurance? Our team can verify your coverage and let you know what to expect for out-of-pocket costs.