Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove precancerous cells and tissues from the lining (mucosa) of the gastrointestinal tract. During the procedure, an advanced intervention gastroenterologist uses a long, flexible tube called an endoscope to suction, band and remove any precancerous cells and tissues.
EMR is primarily used to remove small lesions or larger ones that have not reached the more inner layers of the gastrointestinal tract. The procedure is most often used to diagnose esophageal cancer and Barrett’s esophagus and may be used to diagnose colon cancer.
Preparing for an EMR
Generally, you will be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your EMR procedure. If you will be having a colon EMR, you will need to make sure your bowels are empty by taking laxatives or drinking a special solution, similar to how you would prepare for a colonoscopy.
You’ll receive clear, specific instructions from your doctor ahead of time, so you know exactly what to do to prepare for your EMR.
During the Procedure
EMRs are short procedures, lasting 30 to 60 minutes. During the procedure your gastroenterologist will insert a thin, flexible, lighted tube called endoscope into your mouth or anus. The endoscope contains a small camera that sends real-time images to a monitor so your doctor can guide the endoscope to the specific area of the gastrointestinal tract to be evaluated.
If any unusual cells or tissues are observed, your gastroenterologist will use the thin wire on the end of the endoscope to lift and separate the tumor from the surrounding tissues and then use an electrical current in the wire to remove the tumor and seal the small cut it makes.
After the procedure, a pathologist will evaluate any tissue samples removed for signs of cancer or other abnormalities and share the results with your doctor.
Will There Be Side Effects Afterward?
If your EMR involves inserting the endoscope into your mouth and down into your esophagus, you may have a sore throat after your EMR. If your procedure involves inserting the endoscope into your anus to evaluate the large intestine or colon, you may feel some slight bloating, cramping, or gas pains immediately after EMR.
You may also experience some side effects from the anesthesia you receive such as nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness.
Your doctor will go over the possible side effects of EMR with you and answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure.
Why Choose Cooper for Your Endoscopic Mucosal Resection?
Cooper’s multidisciplinary team includes gastroenterologists, pathologists, thoracic surgeons, general surgeons, nurse practitioners, and other health care professionals working together collaboratively to provide you or your loved one with the most advanced care possible.
The unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge technologies and advanced approaches to care are designed to keep our patients out of the operating room. In those cases where surgery is needed, Cooper has the expertise to perform minimally invasive procedures.
Contact Us
To learn more about endoscopic mucosal resection or to make an appointment, please call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).
Refer a Patient
If you are a doctor who wants to refer a patient for an endoscopic mucosal resection, please call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).