Notes to visitors
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)
What is Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)?
ESD is an advanced therapeutic endoscopy that allows the removal (resection) of tumours in the colon or anus altogether without the need for open surgery. A long and flexible tubular instrument called colonoscope is inserted through the anus and a solution is injected submucosally (beneath the mucous membrane) to elevate the area affected by the tumour. The tumour is then resected and a tissue sample can be obtained for further laboratory diagnosis. ESD has to be performed by experienced doctors (endoscopists) due to its complexity and technical difficulty.
Why is Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) required?
ESD can be used for complete removal of polyps (non-cancerous growths in the lining of the colon or the rectum) regardless of their sizes and removal of certain colorectal tumours.