Noninvasive competition for endoscopic ultrasound

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is one of the most significant developments in gastrointestinal (GI) imaging in recent years. EUS now plays a key role in the pretreatment staging of GI tract tumors and in the investigation of benign pancreaticobiliary pathology. It has not replaced conventional cross-sectional imaging (eg, ultrasound, CT, and MRI), but it has distinct properties and capabilities. EUS is most beneficial when used in a complementary fashion with cross-sectional and radionuclide imaging in the management of patients with GI tract disease. This article reviews the role of noninvasive imaging modalities in several clinical situations where EUS plays a prominent role.