Endoscopic Ultrasound (cont.)
What are the risks of EUS ?
Like other endoscopy procedures, EUS is safe and
well tolerated. But no procedure is without risk, which
with EUS are quite rare. Complication rate for
EUS without the fine needle aspiration is about one
in two thousand. This is similar to the complication rate
of other endoscopy procedures. Sometimes, patients can
develop reactions such as hives, skin rash or nausea to the
medications used during EUS. A lump may appear in
the area of the vein where the IV was placed. This usually
resolves over time. Should it persist, you should contact
your physician. The main complication of serious note is
perforation (making a hole in the intestinal wall) that may
require surgical repair. This is quite rare and all
precautions are taken to avoid it.
When FNA is performed complications occur more
often but are still uncommon (0.5-1.0%). Passing a needle
through the gut wall may cause minor bleeding. If unusual
bleeding occurs, the patient may be hospitalized briefly
for observation, but blood transfusions are rarely needed.
Infection is another rare complication of FNA.
Infection can occur during aspiration of fluid from cysts
and antibiotics may be given before the procedure. If the
FNA is performed on the pancreas, pancreatitis
(inflammation of the pancreas) can rarely occur.
Pancreatitis calls for hospitalization, observation, rest,
IV fluid, and medication for abdominal pain. It usually
resolves spontaneously in a few days.
Last Editorial Review: 4/24/2002
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