What is Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR)?
Endoscopic submucosal resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive advanced endoscopic procedure which is used to remove or resect pre-cancerous or early cancerous lesions of the gastrointestinal tract (GI).
Lesions or masses are isolated and fluid is injected underneath to ‘lift’ the area. It is then cut out using a thin wire (snare) fed after forming a loop circumferentially around the tumor.
An electrical current is passed through the wire which both removes the tumor and also cauterizes the wound.
Indications:-
1. Early cancers or micro-invasive cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract like the esophagus,
stomach, or duodenum
2. Masses or polyps (< 2 cm) in the lower gastrointestinal tract, especially neoplastic polyps
3. Barrett’s esophagus
Advantages of EMR over surgery:-
1. Minimally invasive procedure
2. Complete resection prevents the spread of cancer
3. Accurate staging and grading
4. Minimal stay in the hospital (1-2 days max)
5.No complications
6. Excellent prognosis