Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)
A saline-lift technique separates large flat or sessile polyps from the deeper wall before snare removal - enabling safe resection of lesions not removable by standard polypectomy. Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
What is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)?
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is an advanced endoscopic technique for large, flat, or sessile polyps that cannot be safely removed by standard polypectomy. A solution injected into the submucosal layer beneath the polyp creates a 'cushion' that lifts the polyp away from the deeper muscle wall. The lifted polyp is then captured and removed with an electrocautery snare. Dr. Samhitha Reddy performs EMR at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad for large flat or sessile adenomas, laterally spreading tumours, and sessile serrated lesions - as part of the colon polypectomy in Hyderabad programme. The submucosal lift confirms the absence of deep submucosal invasion and provides a safety cushion, making EMR one of the safest minimally invasive polypectomy techniques available.
How the Procedure Works
Lesion Assessment
The polyp is assessed endoscopically - chromoendoscopy or NBI identifies margins. Forceps biopsy confirms histological type before planning EMR.
Submucosal Injection
A hypertonic saline or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose solution (with indigo carmine dye and adrenaline) is injected submucosally to lift the polyp away from the muscularis propria.
Snare Placement
An electrocautery snare is placed around the entire lifted polyp - ensuring the lifting cushion is maintained under the snare throughout.
Piecemeal or En-bloc Resection
The polyp is removed en-bloc (if <20 mm) or piecemeal for larger lesions. Each piece is retrieved and oriented for pathology.
Defect Assessment & Haemostasis
The resection defect is inspected for completeness and haemostasis. Clips are placed for large defects to prevent delayed bleeding.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →No surgical incisions - entirely endoscopic technique
- →Submucosal lift creates a safe cushion that prevents perforation
- →Can remove large flat polyps (2-5 cm) in a single endoscopic session
- →Day-care procedure with rapid recovery
- →Avoids the need for surgical resection in most patients with large flat adenomas
- →Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad as part of the advanced endoscopic polypectomy programme
EMR gave us the ability to cure patients with large, flat polyps that would previously have required major bowel surgery. The submucosal lift is elegant in concept and highly effective in practice - separating the polyp from the dangerous deeper layer and allowing safe removal.
— - Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Samhitha Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.