Endoscopic Mucosal Resection in Washington

Potential complications of endoscopic mucosal resection are:

• Puncture (perforation): There is a small risk of a puncture through the wall of the digestive tract, contingent on the dimensions and position of the growth that is taken out
• Bleeding: This is the most common complication and can often be discovered and remedied during the process
• Narrowing of the esophagus: Extracting certain esophageal tumors can enhance the risk of scarring, which narrows the esophagus. This may lead to trouble swallowing and necessitate additional treatment.

Call your Washington gastrointestinal provider or get urgent care if you notice any of the following signs or symptoms after you undergo an endoscopic mucosal resection:

• Chills
• Trouble breathing
• Fever
• Bright red blood in the stool
• Black stool
• Passing out
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Vomiting

A follow-up with your Washington Gastroenterology gastroenterologist will be scheduled to discuss the findings of your endoscopic mucosal resection and the results of any biopsy tests done on tissue specimens. Some questions to raise with your specialist include:

• Should I see a cancer specialist (oncologist)?
• What were the outcomes of the biopsy exams? Do I have cancer?
• How will you supervise my condition?
• If I have cancer, will I require other procedures?
• Were you able to remove all abnormal tissue?

Generally, you will have another colonoscopy or upper endoscopy a couple of months after your procedure to be sure the complete lesion is eradicated. During your initial procedure, your provider might stain the area of the eliminated polyp with ink (tattoo) so that the section can be easily inspected when you have any subsequent tests. The requirements for extra appointments depend on the outcomes of these findings.