EMR is generally safe. Risks include small bleeding (usually self-limited or controlled endoscopically) and perforation (uncommon with experienced technique). Most complications can be managed during the procedure itself.

✦ ENDOSCOPIC LESION REMOVAL

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

Q: How is EMR different from regular polypectomy?

EMR uses submucosal injection to lift larger or flat lesions from the deeper muscle layer, allowing safer and more complete removal. It is reserved for lesions that cannot be safely removed by simple polypectomy.

Q: Will I need follow-up colonoscopy?

Yes. Follow-up colonoscopy is essential to confirm complete removal, especially for larger or piecemeal-resected lesions. Surveillance intervals are individualised based on biopsy and lesion features.

Q: What if the biopsy shows cancer?

If biopsy shows cancer with high-risk features extending into the deeper layer, additional surgery (laparoscopic or open colon resection) may be planned. Many early cancers limited to the mucosa are completely cured by EMR alone.

Advanced endoscopic technique to remove larger flat polyps and early lesions during colonoscopy — fluid is injected beneath the polyp, lifting it for safer, complete removal.

30–60 min PROCEDURE

Day Care HOSPITAL STAY

>90% SUCCESS RATE

1–2 Days RETURN TO ROUTINE

What is Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)?

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) is an advanced endoscopic technique to remove larger flat polyps, sessile polyps and select early lesions of the colon, rectum, or upper gastrointestinal tract during endoscopy. A solution is injected beneath the polyp to lift it from the deeper muscle layer, and the polyp is then removed with a snare in one piece or in pieces. EMR allows safe and effective removal of larger lesions that cannot be removed by simple polypectomy. As an experienced proctologist in Hyderabad, Dr. Tejasree Vengala coordinates EMR at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad, in close collaboration with experienced endoscopists.

Suitable for larger flat or sessile colonic and rectal polyps (typically over 1 cm), select early lesions confined to the mucosa, and patients wanting to avoid surgery for benign or early lesions.

How the Procedure Works

Bowel Preparation

The bowel is cleansed thoroughly using a prescribed bowel preparation regimen the day before the procedure.

Sedation & Endoscopy

The procedure is performed under sedation. The endoscope is inserted to clearly visualise the lesion.

Submucosal Injection

A solution (often containing dye and adrenaline) is injected beneath the lesion to lift it from the underlying muscle layer.

Snare Resection

A wire snare captures the lifted lesion, and electrical current cleanly resects it. Larger lesions may be removed in pieces (piecemeal EMR).

Specimen Retrieval & Closure

All resected tissue is retrieved for biopsy. The base may be inspected, treated to control any bleeding, and closed with clips if needed.

Outcomes

30–60 minDURATION

Day CareHOSPITAL STAY

>90%SUCCESS RATE

1–2 WeeksFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Effective removal of larger flat polyps without surgery
→Avoids open or laparoscopic colon surgery
→Day-care procedure under sedation
→All specimens sent for biopsy assessment
→Quick return to routine activities
→Excellent option for select early lesions

EMR is wonderfully underrated — large polyps that would otherwise need bowel resection can often be removed cleanly during colonoscopy itself. Lift, snare, retrieve, biopsy, plan the next step. For the right lesion, it is a beautiful piece of minimally invasive medicine.

— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How is EMR different from regular polypectomy?+

Will I need follow-up colonoscopy?+

Are there any risks?+

What if the biopsy shows cancer?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.

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