An overview of Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a medical procedure that involves using a long, narrow tube equipped with a light, video camera, and other instruments to remove precancerous, early-stage cancer, or other abnormal tissues (lesions) from the digestive tract. EMR is performed by a gastroenterologist and is a less invasive alternative to surgery for removing abnormal tissues from the lining of the digestive tract. It is done to treat early-stage cancer, precancerous lesions, and collect tissues for diagnosis. Risks include bleeding, narrowing of the esophagus, and puncture (perforation).
What is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection used for?
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is a medical procedure that involves removing abnormal tissues from the lining of the digestive tract using a long, narrow tube equipped with a light, video camera, and other instruments. EMR is performed to remove precancerous, early-stage cancer, or other abnormal tissues (lesions) from the digestive tract. It is a less invasive alternative to surgery for removing these abnormal tissues. EMR is also used to collect tissues for diagnosis and determine if the cancer has invaded tissues beneath the digestive tract lining. EMR is performed by a gastroenterologist.
How to prepare for Endoscopic Mucosal Resection?
Patient preparation is important before undergoing an Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) test. To prepare for the procedure, you should:
- Provide a complete medical history, including medications, allergies, and medical conditions.
- Follow dietary instructions provided by your doctor.
- Arrange transportation as sedatives may be used during the procedure.
- Fast for several hours before the procedure, as instructed by your doctor.
- Anticipate discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and ask any questions you may have before the procedure.
How is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection conducted?
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is conducted by inserting a long, narrow tube (endoscope) equipped with a light, video camera, and other instruments into the patient's digestive tract. The endoscope is used to reach the location of the abnormal tissue (lesion) in the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or colon. The procedure involves injecting a fluid to create a cushion between the lesion and healthy tissue, lifting the lesion, cutting it, and removing it from the body. The area may be marked with ink for future reference. The patient is typically given a local anesthetic and will need someone to drive them home after the procedure due to the sedation used.
How are Endoscopic Mucosal Resection results reported?
The results of Endoscopic Mucosal Resection are typically reported to the patient by their doctor or gastroenterologist. The report will include information about the removal of abnormal tissues and any findings from the biopsy or specimen collected during the procedure. The report may also mention any complications or issues encountered during the procedure, such as bleeding or puncture. The doctor will discuss the results with the patient and provide guidance on any necessary follow-up or further treatment.
Understanding the report
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection results are typically interpreted by a gastroenterologist during a follow-up appointment. The doctor will discuss the outcome of the procedure and any laboratory tests performed on lesion samples. The interpretation of the results may include the following aspects:
- Completeness of tissue removal
- Biopsy results
- Presence or absence of complications
- Further treatment or follow-up recommendations It's essential to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor during the follow-up appointment. This will help you better understand the results of the Endoscopic Mucosal Resection and any necessary steps for ongoing care.