Endoscopic submucosal dissection for colorectal epithelial neoplasm

Background Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), a new widely accepted method for treating early gastric cancer, was developed to increase the en bloc rate, especially for lesions larger than 20 mm in diameter. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ESD for colorectal epithelial neoplasms. Methods From July 2006 to December 2007, ESD was indicated for patients with colorectal epithelial neoplasms larger than 20 mm in diameter. The rates of curative en bloc resection, the procedure time, and the incidence of complications were investigated. Results A total of 74 colorectal epithelial neoplasms were resected by ESD. The mean diameter of these lesions was 32.6 mm (range, 20-85 mm). The rate of en bloc resection was 93.2% (69/74), and the mean ESD procedure time was 110 min (range, 80-185 min). None of patients had massive hemorrhage during ESD, and only one patient (1.4%) bled 8 days after ESD. Six patients experienced perforation, and all except one recovered after several days of conservative treatment. The patient who did not recover underwent urgent surgery. The perforation rate was 8.1% (6/74). All the patients were followed up. Healing of the artificial ulcer was confirmed, and with no lesion residue or recurrence was found. Conclusions The findings show ESD to be effective for colorectal epithelial neoplasm, making it possible to resect the whole lesion in one piece and to provide precise histologic information.