Understanding Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)

 

 

 

What Is ESD?

 

 

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is an advanced procedure used to remove early cancers or precancerous growths from the lining of the digestive tract (such as the esophagus, stomach, or colon) without surgery.

 

During ESD, a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is passed into your digestive tract. Special tools are used through the endoscope to carefully lift and cut out the lesion from the deeper layers of the gut wall. This allows for complete removal of abnormal tissue in one piece.

 

 

 

Why Do I Need an ESD?

 

 

Your doctor may recommend an ESD to:

 

• Remove early-stage cancers that have not spread deeply.

• Treat large or flat lesions that cannot be safely removed with standard endoscopic techniques.

• Avoid major surgery if the cancer is detected early enough.

 

 

Benefits of ESD include:

 

• A better chance of complete removal.

• Lower risk of needing open surgery.

• A more precise diagnosis through complete tissue analysis.