Endorectal and anal sonography

Abstract

In the past decade there has been a resurgence of interest in the use of endoluminal ultrasonography (EUS) for a variety of anorectal applications. The introduction of technology that allows real-time, 360°radial scanning of the anorectum and the surrounding structures began a new era in endoluminal imaging. The ability to accurately stage rectal cancer preoperatively was the first real benefit realised by the use of this new modality; many other useful applications in the field of colorectal surgery have since become apparent. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.