What does it consist of?
The Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) It is a technique that allows the removal of superficial lesions in the digestive tract via endoscopy, without the need for surgery. It is primarily used to eliminate polyps or early-stage lesions located in the mucosa.
It is a less invasive procedure than surgery, indicated in selected injuries that do not require more complex techniques. It allows for the effective treatment of certain conditions and avoids more aggressive procedures when detected early.
In addition to its therapeutic function, The RME allows us to obtain the lesion for full analysis, which helps to confirm the diagnosis and decide on the most appropriate follow-up.
What is the procedure?
The Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) it is an advanced and safe technique that our experts in Madrid carry out following a precise protocol:
1. Preparation and sedation
- Fast cleansings: The patient must undergo a fasting period. In cases of the colon or rectum, a pre-cleaning Similar to a colonoscopy.
- Medication The temporary suspension of anticoagulant drugs is evaluated to minimise risks.
- Environment It is usually done in a Outpatient in an endoscopy room under sedation, with an average duration of 30 to 90 minutes.
2. Technical execution
Submucosal Injection A solution (serum or viscous substance) is injected beneath the lesion to create a «cushion». This separates the mucosal layer from the muscular layer, protecting the organ.
Loop Excision A circular electrical device called Diathermy unit to catch and remove the lesion. Depending on the size, it is done «en bloc» (in one piece) or in a fragmented manner.
Security Lockout In certain cases, the specialist places metal clips on the residual scar to seal the area and prevent complications.
3. Extraction and closure
Following completion, the patient remains under observation for a short period. If their condition is optimal, they receive the high after a few hours, without needing to be admitted to hospital.
Specific instructions
The RME is the standard treatment for digestive tract injuries.oesophagus, stomach, intestine, Colon and rectum) that meet certain criteria:
Colon and rectum polyps Especially those up to 2-3 cm. In larger low-risk polyps, the fragmented technique is performed.
Stomach Gastric polyps under 2-3 cm and low-risk neuroendocrine tumours (<1 cm).
Oesophagus Early cases of adenocarcinoma (size <1-2 cm).
Duodenum Duodenal polyps between 1 and 2 cm.
Low-risk tumours: Small rectal or gastric lesions where complete excision is technically feasible.
Recovery and care
As it is a largely outpatient technique, the post-intervention process is very streamlined:
First few hours: It is recommended to maintain digestive rest (fasting) for a few hours after the procedure.
Diet progression: The patient should commence intake progressively as per the instructions received at the centre.
Back to the routine: Readmission to normal life is usually possible at 24 hours of the intervention.
Active surveillance Although the risk is low, the patient should watch out for severe abdominal pain or bleeding in their stools in the following days.
Tracking
- Histological Study All fragments obtained are sent to Pathology for microscopic analysis to confirm the definitive diagnosis.
- Recurrence Control Given that there is a risk of recurrence with the staged approach (15–40%), it is essential to comply with the Endoscopic review appointments Scheduled.
- Additional treatments If a recurrence is detected during follow-up, our experts can safely treat it with new courses of MRI.
Results
- High success rate: RME achieves a complete cure rate of 85.1%, which is even higher for small lesions excised in a single piece.
- Maximum securityIt is a well-established technique with an excellent safety profile, ideal for patients looking to avoid surgery.
- Effective preventionIt has proven to be the key tool in preventing polyps and pre-malignant lesions from progressing to more serious diseases.
- AAlternative to surgeryIt allows most digestive tract injuries to be treated minimally invasively, without external scarring and with a rapid recovery.
Why carry out this test at GASTEA?
- Specialists in endoscopic resection. Technique performed by gastroenterologists with experience in advanced endoscopy.
- Minimally invasive alternative. It allows for the treatment of injuries without resorting to surgery in many cases.
- Diagnosis and treatment in a single step. Removal of the lesion and subsequent analysis in the same procedure.
- Personalised direction. We select the most appropriate technique according to each type of injury.
And GASTEIZ, safety is our priority. During the informational consultation, our specialists will explain the safety profile of the procedure in detail and resolve all your questions in a personalised manner.
Preguntas frecuentes
RME is used in more superficial injuries and is usually a simpler technique.
Yes, in selected injuries it allows avoiding surgical procedures.
Yes, when performed by specialists experienced in endoscopy.
In most cases yes, although it depends on the size and characteristics.
- Full and personalised clinical assessment. Detailed analysis of symptoms, history, and previous tests to understand your case in depth.
- Clear diagnostic guidance. Definition of the following steps, necessary tests and the most suitable approach from the outset.
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