An endoscopic resection, also referred to as an endoscopic resection mucosal resection (EMR), is a gastrointestinal procedure that is used for the purpose of removing cancerous tissue and other lesions from a part of the digestive tract. This procedure is an alternative surgery. It can be used to access both the esophagus and the colon and is often used in treating cancers of the digestive tract during the early stages.
The tool that is used for this procedure is called an endoscope, which is multi-functional. It has a light and camera so the doctor can see to navigate, and it has tools that remove or help repair the affected tissue. There are various techniques that are used to access the tumors or irregular tissue regions. Many gastroenterologists insert a saline solution into the healthy tissue just beneath the damage to raise it up and then use a hook to separate the two with minimal damage to the healthy section.
During an endoscopic resection, the long endoscope tube is inserted down the throat to reach the upper areas of the digestive tract. Through this section, tissue can be removed from the esophagus, stomach or upper region of the small intestine. If the lower section has the problematic tissue, the endoscope goes through the anus to reach the colon, large intestine or lower section of the small intestine.
An endoscopic resection can also be used as a diagnostic aid. In some cases, tissue biopsies are necessary to properly diagnose a condition that has appeared in other imaging tests. A piece of tissue can be removed for testing without the risk of surgery. The endoscope can also help doctors determine the extent of damage and whether other areas are in danger.
The common side effects of an endoscopic resection are minimal. A sedative is used during the procedure, so slight drowsiness or nausea can occur following the procedure and recovery. If the endoscope went down the throat, soreness is likely. Gas, cramps and bloating after the procedure are common, especially if there was air pumped to provide access. These symptoms will most often disappear within 24 hours.
Blood that appears in vomit or stools or black-colored stools can suggest complications. Medical attention is necessary in those cases. Emergency care might be necessary, and is highly recommended, if chest pain, fainting, trouble breathing, fever or chills are experienced. These symptoms are extremely rare, but if they are present, medical assistance is needed to ensure that there is no permanent damage.
