EMR and ESD

The most common lesions which may require EMR/ESD include:

1. Barrett’s oesophagus with dysplasia
   
2. Some forms of early oesophageal cancer
   
3. Early gastric cancer (or precancerous lesions)
   
4. Large polyps in the colon or rectum

You will receive twilight sedation. You will most likely begin by lying on your left side. After you receive sedatives, the procedure will commence. The instrument does not interfere with your ability to breathe. The actual examination generally takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Specialised endoscopic cutting devices are used to carefully and completely remove the known lesion following separation of the gut layers using a viscous solution to minimise the risks of complications.

For EMR/ESD of the upper gastrointestinal tract, you should have nothing to eat or drink, not even water, usually six hours before the examination. Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to start this fasting. If the procedure involves the colon or rectum, you will need a bowel cleanse as for a colonoscopy.

Please advise us of all medications prior to your procedure.

Your doctor will explain the procedure and risks in detail during your consultation, as these vary depending upon the size and location of the lesion being treated.

You will receive sedatives so you won’t be allowed to drive after the procedure until the next day, even if you don’t feel tired. You should arrange for a ride home. You must have someone stay with you at home after the examination as the sedatives could affect your judgment and reflexes for 24 hours.

Most EMR and ESD cases are same-day procedures. Your doctor may advise a short admission for observation as a routine precaution.