Esophageal ultrasound

Abstract

Esophageal ultrasound is a minimally invasive endoscopic technique by which mediastinal nodes and posterior mediastinal masses can be aspirated under real-time ultrasound guidance. Esophageal ultrasound is complementary to endobronchial ultrasound as it targets different areas of the mediastinum. For the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer, EUS has large impact on patient management by providing tissue proof of advanced disease or preventing more invasive surgical staging procedures. EUS is also an accurate and safe test to assess noncaseating granulomas in patients with sarcoidosis.