Polypectomy and Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

Polypectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection are advanced therapeutic procedures used to remove abnormal tissue growths (polyps) from the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach and colon. These techniques are essential in preventing the progression of precancerous lesions, particularly in colorectal cancer prevention.

What is it?
They are minimally invasive procedures performed during an endoscopy or colonoscopy to safely remove polyps or superficial lesions from the digestive tract.

Procedure Description:
During the procedure, a specialized instrument called a snare (loop) is introduced through the endoscope. This loop is placed around the polyp, and electrocautery (controlled electrical current) is applied to cut the lesion at its base while simultaneously sealing blood vessels to minimize bleeding.

In more advanced cases, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) allows for the removal of larger or flatter lesions by lifting the tissue and resecting it in a controlled manner.

These procedures are performed under sedation, are highly effective, and typically do not require surgery. Removed tissue is sent for histopathological analysis to determine its nature.

Polypectomy and EMR play a critical role in early intervention, significantly reducing the risk of gastrointestinal cancers and contributing to safer, preventive care.