Technique of endoscopic ultrasonography investigation: esophagus, stomach and duodenum

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUT) allows a better sonographic image of the internal organs. Moreover, it is possible for the first time to explore the upper GI tract wall. To achieve this, three methods are available: 1) direct apposition of the transducer on the mucosa; 2) contact of a small balloon filled with water over the tip of the ultrasonic probe; 3) direct instillation of water. The esophageal wall is explored with the first and second method; the gastric wall is best explored with the third method; the duodenal wall is explored with the second or the third method. Exploration of esophagus and stomach has been achieved in 100% of cases, duodenal exploration in 72% of cases. No complications occurred in this study.