Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection is an advanced procedure that allows doctors to remove tumors from the digestive tract without major surgery.
ESD at Cape Fear Valley Health
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) removes tumors from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This method is minimally invasive, meaning it avoids large surgical cuts. Doctors use a flexible tube called an endoscope, which has a camera and special tools attached to it.
ESD targets tumors under the GI tract's lining. These tumors can be cancerous or precancerous. The precision of ESD allows for effective removal of abnormal tissue, which helps prevent the progression of cancer.
The procedure is often done as an outpatient service. Patients usually don’t need to stay overnight in the hospital, making ESD a convenient option for many.
ESD may reduce the need for more invasive surgeries, lower the risk of complications, and minimize pain and recovery time. It also helps in the accurate staging of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning.
Additionally, ESD can treat various conditions beyond cancer. It is used for removing large polyps and early-stage tumors. This versatility makes it a valuable tool in GI care.
Am I a Candidate for ESD?
At Cape Fear Valley Health, ESD may be a treatment option for patients with:
- Barrett’s Esophagus with Early Cancer
- Certain types of benign polyps
- Colon Polyps
- Early Colorectal Cancer
- Early esophageal cancer
- Early Stomach Cancer
- Submucosal Tumors
- Superficial Esophageal Squamous Cell Cancer
Our Approach to ESD
At CFVH, our approach to ESD is centered on patient care and precision. We prioritize minimally invasive techniques to provide effective treatment with fewer complications.
Our experienced gastroenterology team uses advanced technology to remove tumors and polyps accurately.
We believe in thorough evaluation and personalized care plans. Our goal is to improve patient outcomes and promote safety and comfort throughout the treatment process.
We aim to offer the best possible care for your digestive health by focusing on early detection and precise treatment.
What to Expect With ESD
In general, here’s what a patient undergoing an ESD can expect during the procedure.
Before the procedure, you'll have a thorough consultation with your doctor to discuss your condition and the specifics of the ESD.
This minimally invasive procedure is typically performed under sedation for comfort. The endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light, is inserted through your mouth or rectum, guided by real-time imaging.
During the ESD, your doctor uses specialized tools to remove the tumor or polyp carefully. The process involves injecting a saline solution to lift the tissue. Then, the surgeon uses a wire loop to cut away the abnormal tissue layer by layer.
This technique is highly precise, allowing the removal of tumors or polyps without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure usually takes a few hours, depending on the size and location of the lesion.
After the ESD, you will be taken to a recovery area. Here, medical staff will monitor your vital signs while you wake safely from sedation. Most patients can go home the same day, but you may need someone to drive you.
If the endoscope was inserted through your mouth, you might experience mild discomfort or a sore throat post-procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on care and follow-up visits to monitor healing and check for signs of recurrence.
You may need periodic endoscopic exams to ensure the treated area is healing properly and to check for new abnormalities.