Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

Advanced Treatment for Early-Stage GI Lesions and Polyps

What is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)?

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove abnormal growths, such as precancerous lesions, polyps, and early-stage cancers, from the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. EMR is an effective alternative to surgery for lesions in the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in advanced EMR techniques to treat GI conditions safely and effectively, helping you avoid more invasive surgeries and achieve the best outcomes.

Why is EMR Performed?

EMR is recommended for the removal of:

• Precancerous Lesions in the GI tract
• Large or Flat Polyps in the colon, stomach, or esophagus
• Early-Stage GI Cancers limited to the mucosal (inner) layer of the digestive tract
• Barrett’s Esophagus with Dysplasia
• Adenomas and other suspicious lesions detected during routine endoscopy or colonoscopy

By removing these growths early, EMR helps reduce the risk of progression to invasive cancer.

How is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection Performed?

EMR is a precise and targeted procedure performed during an endoscopy or colonoscopy.

1. Preparation
   • For colon EMR, bowel preparation (cleansing) is required.
   • For upper GI EMR, fasting for 6–8 hours before the procedure is necessary.
   • Sedation or anesthesia will be administered to ensure comfort.
2. Procedure
   • A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is inserted into the GI tract to locate the lesion.
   • A lifting agent (saline or other solution) is injected beneath the lesion to raise it from the deeper layers, reducing the risk of damage.
   • The lesion is removed using specialized tools such as a snare loop with gentle suction or cutting, often combined with electrical energy to ensure clean removal.
   • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the lesion.
3. Recovery
   • After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedation wears off.
   • Most patients can go home the same day, with post-procedure guidelines provided for recovery.

Benefits of Endoscopic Mucosal Resection

• Minimally Invasive: No incisions; avoids the need for traditional surgery.
• High Success Rate: Effective for removing precancerous and early-stage cancerous lesions.
• Faster Recovery: Shorter recovery time compared to surgical procedures.
• Preserves GI Function: Allows the digestive tract to remain intact with minimal disruption.
• Diagnostic and Therapeutic: Removed tissue is sent for detailed analysis to confirm diagnosis and guide further treatment.

Who is a Candidate for EMR?

You may benefit from EMR if you have:

• Large or complex GI polyps that cannot be removed through standard techniques
• Early-stage gastrointestinal cancers limited to the mucosa
• Suspicious lesions detected during routine screening (e.g., colonoscopy or endoscopy)
• Barrett’s esophagus with precancerous changes (dysplasia)

Our gastroenterologists at Central Gastro will assess your condition and determine if EMR is the best treatment option for you.

What to Expect After EMR

• Dietary Changes: You may need to stick to a liquid or soft diet for a day or two after the procedure.
• Temporary Symptoms: Mild discomfort, bloating, or throat soreness may occur but resolve quickly.
• Follow-Up: A follow-up endoscopy or colonoscopy is often scheduled to ensure complete healing and confirm that no abnormal tissue remains.

Regular monitoring is essential to detect and manage any recurrence of lesions or polyps.