Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is a specialized endoscopic procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube equipped with a camera and precise tools to remove lesions from the digestive tract—specifically the esophagus, stomach, colon, and rectum. Unlike traditional surgery, ESD avoids external incisions, accessing the digestive tract through the mouth or rectum. This allows for accurate removal of abnormal tissue with less trauma and shorter recovery times.

ESD is ideal for patients diagnosed with:

• Early-stage cancers in the esophagus, stomach, colon, or rectum
• Large or flat polyps and precancerous lesions that carry a risk of developing into cancer
• Certain types of subepithelial lesions (growths beneath the surface lining of organs) in the esophagus, stomach, colon, or rectum.

ESD offers distinct advantages over conventional surgery:

• No Surgical Incisions: Since ESD avoids major cuts, it leads to reduced pain and faster healing.
• Complete Lesion Removal: ESD can remove the entire lesion, including the surrounding tissue margin, which provides a more comprehensive pathology evaluation and enhances the curative potential.
• Faster Recovery: With less trauma to the body, most patients experience quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery, allowing a return to daily activities within days.

Although ESD is generally safe, it carries some risks:

• Bleeding: Minor bleeding can occur but is usually controlled during the procedure.
• Perforation: There is a rare risk of puncturing the digestive tract wall, which is often manageable during the procedure itself.
• Infection: Though minimal, the chance of infection remains, as with any medical procedure.

Recovery following ESD is typically quick and smooth. Most patients can resume regular activities within a few days, with minimal discomfort. Dietary guidelines might be recommended to support the healing process, and patients usually receive follow-up care to monitor their recovery.

For eligible patients, ESD provides an attractive alternative to surgery, especially for early-stage cancers or high-risk lesions. Key benefits include:

• Minimized Invasiveness: The absence of incisions means less pain and fewer risks of complications.
• Enhanced Precision: Ideal for early-stage cancers, ESD enables complete removal of lesions, reducing the need for additional treatments.
• Curative Potential: For early-stage cancers and pre-cancerous lesions, ESD can provide a complete cure, eliminating the need for extensive surgical interventions.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) may be suitable if you have an early-stage or high-risk lesion within the digestive tract. Consultation with a specialist is essential to determine eligibility for ESD and develop a tailored treatment plan.
For patients seeking effective, minimally invasive treatment options, ESD offers a promising path forward in digestive health.

Bumrungrad International Hospital’s Digestive Disease Center offers the latest in ESD technology, combined with skilled specialists, to ensure the best outcomes for patients with early gastrointestinal cancers or complex lesions. The hospital’s commitment to patient-centered care and advanced procedures makes ESD a preferred option for those seeking minimally invasive solutions with maximal precision.