Endoscopic mucosal ablation - an alternative treatment for colonic polyps: Three case reports

Abstract

BACKGROUND Endoscopic resection of non-invasive lesions is now the standard of care for lesions in the GI tract. However, resection techniques require extensive training, are not available in all endoscopy centers and are prone to complications. Endoscopic mucosal ablation (EMA) is a combination of resection and ablation techniques and it may offer an alternative in the management of such lesions. CASE SUMMARY In this case series we report the successful treatment of three flat colonic polyps using the EMA technique. Two lesions were treatment naïve and 1 was a recurrence after an endoscopic mucosal resection. The sizes ranged from 2 to 4 cm. All three polyps were ablated successfully with no immediate or delayed complications. The recurrence rate at 1 year of follow up was 0%. CONCLUSION Based on this initial experience, we conclude that EMA is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of non-invasive colonic polyps when endoscopic resection techniques are not available.

Is endoscopic mucosal ablation a valid option for treating colon polyps?

“…We were pleased to read the excellent article published by Mendoza Ladd et al [ 1 ]. Their report showed a new and safe method for treating colon polyps.…”

Endoman 1.0 Trainer A Low-Cost Simulation Pedagogic Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Teaching Model for High, Middle and Low Resource Settings

“…Endoscopic ablation has emerged as the preferred treatment for colonic polyps. (4) Furthermore, endoscopic procedures tend to be more cost-effective than conventional surgical methods, indicating a clinical as well as an economic advantage. (5) There has developed a need for healthcare professionals, particularly doctors, to adopt and accept modern technologically advanced training methods (14,15).…”