Doctors in the United States have reported the first use of a new ultrasound imaging system to examine growths in the rectum during outpatient procedures. The technology, which combines imaging with treatment capabilities, was used successfully in two patients at an ambulatory surgical centre.
What the team reported
The medical team from HCA Healthcare published their experience using the EndoSound Vision System, a novel endoscopic ultrasound platform, to examine rectal subepithelial lesions. These are growths that develop beneath the surface layer of the rectal wall and can be difficult to assess without detailed imaging.
Both patients underwent ultrasound imaging followed by removal of the lesion on the same day. The procedures were carried out safely in an outpatient setting, meaning the patients did not need to stay overnight in hospital.
According to the case report, published in ACG Case Reports Journal, the system provided high-resolution imaging whilst maintaining forward-viewing optics and full access to the working channel. This allowed the clinicians to see clearly whilst also being able to use instruments through the endoscope.
How the technology differs
Traditional endoscopic ultrasound uses a side-viewing scope or a separate ultrasound probe to create images of structures in the gut wall and surrounding tissues. The EndoSound Vision System is designed to allow forward viewing and instrument use at the same time as ultrasound imaging.
The authors suggest this combination may offer practical advantages during procedures, particularly when both diagnosis and treatment are planned for the same session.
What this type of imaging is used for
Rectal subepithelial lesions are growths found beneath the inner lining of the rectum. They may be detected during routine endoscopy or when investigating symptoms. Not all of these lesions need treatment, but some may require removal depending on their size, appearance, and the layer of tissue they arise from.
Endoscopic ultrasound helps doctors determine which layer of the rectal wall the lesion originates from and whether it is likely to be benign or require further investigation. This information can guide decisions about whether to remove the lesion, monitor it over time, or refer the patient for additional tests.
In these two cases, the imaging findings allowed the team to proceed with endoscopic mucosal resection, a technique used to remove abnormal tissue from the lining of the digestive tract.
What to keep in mind
This report describes just two cases and represents early experience with a new technology. The authors note that further research is needed to understand how the EndoSound Vision System compares with established ultrasound methods already used in routine practice.
The patients in this series were carefully selected for outpatient procedures. Not all rectal lesions are suitable for same day treatment, and decisions about the best approach depend on individual circumstances, including the size and location of the lesion and the patient’s overall health.
The use of any new diagnostic or treatment technology requires validation through larger studies before it can be widely recommended. At present, this case series demonstrates feasibility rather than proving clinical benefit over existing approaches.
Why this matters
Advances in imaging technology may help doctors assess rectal lesions more accurately and efficiently. If the EndoSound Vision System proves effective in larger studies, it could offer a practical option for combining diagnosis and treatment in selected outpatient settings.
For patients, this may mean fewer hospital visits and shorter waiting times between diagnosis and treatment. However, more evidence is needed to confirm these potential benefits and to establish which patients are most likely to benefit from this approach.
Reference
Monis C, Hou J, Totah F, et al. Pioneering the Use of a Novel Endoscopic Ultrasound Platform for Rectal Endoscopic Ultrasound: A Case Series in Outpatient Management of Rectal Subepithelial Lesions. ACG Case Rep J. 2026;13(6):e02191. doi:10.14309/crj.0000000000002191
This article is a journalistic summary for informational purposes only. It does not constitute clinical advice or a recommendation to alter treatment decisions.