Current status of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic ultrasonography

Endoscopic ultrasonography was developed out of desire to overcome several limitations of standard ultrasound imaging. Placement of the ultrasound transducer within the body allows the examiner to avoid interference from air-filled or body structure and allows the use of higher frequency and higher resolution ultrasound. Endoscopic ultrasonography has become a valuable tool in the evolution of malignant and nonmalignant disorders of the pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, hepatobiliary system, and mediastinum. This imaging modality will assume a more prominent role in the near future as access to training and equipment increases.