Therapeutic Endoscopy
Therapeutic endoscopy goes beyond diagnosis, allowing doctors to treat digestive conditions using specialized instruments passed through an endoscope. From removing polyps to stopping internal bleeding, this minimally invasive approach can help patients receive effective treatment without major surgery, supporting their recovery and return to everyday life.
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a technique used to remove polyps or abnormal growths from the lining of the digestive tract. Fluid is first injected beneath the growth, creating a cushion that lifts it away from the deeper tissue. A snare—a thin wire loop—is used to carefully remove it. This can be performed without heat, called cold snare EMR, or with controlled electrical energy, called hot or the classic EMR. Depending on its size and shape, the growth may be removed in one piece or in smaller sections, a method known as piecemeal removal.
Endoscopic Submucosal Resection
Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a technique used to carefully remove polyps or abnormal growths in the digestive tract. A thick fluid is first injected beneath the growth, creating a cushion that lifts it away from the deeper tissue. A specially designed electrocautery knife—a small instrument that cuts using controlled electrical energy—is used to gently separate and remove the growth in one piece. This is particularly useful for larger growths, especially those measuring more than 2 centimeters or showing features that raise concern for cancer. Removing the growth in one piece allows it to be examined more thoroughly.