Endoscopic Ultrasound with Conventional Probe and Miniprobe in Preoperative Staging of Esophageal Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is a clinical routine procedure in the preoperative staging of esophageal cancer. Using an EUS miniprobe introduced via a flexible endoscope, even highly stenotic tumors can be examined without prior dilatation therapy. In this study, conventional EUS probe and miniprobe were used on demand, depending on the grade of tumor stenosis, and the staging accuracy of this concept was assessed. Patients/methods: Between January 2001 and July 2004, 97 consecutive patients with esophageal cancer undergoing esophageal resection were included in the study.