Endoanal / Endorectal Ultrasound Scanning

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What are Endoanal(EAUS)/Endorectal (ERUS) Ultrasound scans?

Endoanal and endorectal ultrasound scans are similar to ordinary ultrasound scans in that they use sound waves inaudible to the human ear to generate pictures of tissues in detail. The scan is a special type of ultrasound scan which uses a special probe to emit and detect the sound wave in a circular pattern. This probe can then be inserted into the anal canal (endoanal ultrasound scan) or the rectum (endorectal ultrasound) and images generated of the layers of the anus or rectum. These images can be useful in assessing the structure of the anal canal especially in cases where the anal sphincter may be damaged or of the rectum especially in assessment polyps or tumours of the lower end of the bowel which may mean the are amenable to local excision rather than major surgical resection.

What happens before I have my scan?

Before you have your scan you may need to have an enema to clear out the stools from the lower end of the bowel (ERUS). The instruction for this will be supplied and it is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure that the information obtained from the scan is as accurate as possible.

What happens during my scan?
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During the scan an ultrasound probe is placed in the rectum or anus and is manipulated to obtain images of the area of interest. Pictures are recorded both electronically and in print.
The radiologist undertaking the examination will then write a report on their findings for the requesting consultant.
Once the examination is complete you will be able to be discharged and return to normal activities shortly afterwards.

What happens after my scan?
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The ultrasound scan report is created following the scan and a report is written, typed and checked for accuracy by the reporting professional. The report is then authorised for release to the requesting doctor.
Once your report has been received your doctor may contact you to discuss this further either by phone or by seeing you back in the outpatient clinic. Occasionally the doctor may write to you and your General Practitioner with the results of the scan and possibly further advice or a recommendation for further assessment or treatment.