ERPC is an endoscopic procedure used to remove precancerous or early cancerous growths in the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract.

Procedure:

  •  Endoscope insertion: A flexible endoscope is inserted through the mouth or rectum into the gastrointestinal tract.
  •  Lesion detection: The doctor uses an endoscope to visualize the mucous membrane and determine the location and size of the lesion.
  •  Submucosal injection: A saline solution is injected into the submucosal layer under the lesion to separate it from the muscle layer.
  •  Incision and removal: The lesion is excised using a special endoscopic instrument.
  •  Defect closure: The mucosal defect left after the lesion is removed is closed using endoscopic clips or sutures.

Advantages:

  •  Minimally invasive: ERPC is performed through an endoscope, eliminating the need for open surgery.
  •  Precision: The endoscope allows the doctor to accurately visualize and remove the lesion.
  •  Organ Preservation: ERPC allows the lesion to be removed while preserving the surrounding healthy tissues.

Disadvantages:

  •  Limited penetration depth: ERPC is only suitable for lesions located in the mucous membrane or submucosal layer.
  •  Risk of perforation: There is a small risk of perforation of the gastrointestinal tract wall during the procedure.
  •  Bleeding risk: ERPC can cause bleeding, especially in patients with blood clotting disorders.

ERPC is usually indicated for removal:

  •  Early stages of cancer of the stomach, colon or rectum
  •  High grade dysplasia (cancer precursor)
  •  Large adenomas (benign tumors)
  •  Submucosal tumors

Depending on the size, location, and stage of the lesion, alternative treatments may include:

  •  Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (ESR)
  •  Endoscopic submucous dissection (EMD)