How Long Does ESD Take?
Endoscopic submucosal dissection usually takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on lesion size.
The duration varies according to the size, location, and depth of the lesion being removed. ESD performed in areas such as the stomach or esophagus may take longer due to anatomical complexity. Smaller and superficial lesions can be completed more quickly. Since careful dissection is required, the procedure is performed with precision and patience. ESD is generally a same-day procedure, but the total time may differ from patient to patient.
What Is the Recovery Process After ESD?
Recovery after ESD is typically completed within a few days, and most patients return to normal life quickly.
Mild pain, throat discomfort, or temporary digestive symptoms may occur in the first days. Patients are usually observed for 24 hours. Nutrition begins with liquids and progresses to solid foods as advised by the physician.
If no major complications occur after submucosal dissection, most individuals resume daily activities within a few days. Full recovery may take 1 to 2 weeks. Regular follow-up and adherence to medical advice are important.
Is ESD Risky?
When performed by experienced specialists, endoscopic submucosal dissection is generally safe, though it carries some risks.
Possible complications include bleeding, perforation, and infection. These risks can be minimized with proper technique and expertise. With advancing technology, ESD has become increasingly safe.
Careful patient selection and procedural precautions reduce complication rates. As with any medical intervention, patients should be informed about the process and potential risks beforehand.
Who Is Not Suitable for ESD?
ESD is not preferred in patients with poor overall health, high bleeding risk, or advanced-stage tumors.
While suitable for superficial and limited lesions, it is not adequate for deep invasive tumors or cases with lymph node spread. Individuals with severe heart or lung disease or clotting disorders may face higher risk.
Endoscopic submucosal dissection should only be performed after thorough evaluation in appropriate candidates. Tumor location, size, and histological features influence decision-making.
How Is ESD Performed?
During the procedure, fluid is injected beneath the lesion, and tissue layers are carefully separated using an endoscope.
The targeted area is first outlined. A special solution lifts the lesion from underlying tissue. The submucosal layer is dissected step by step to remove the tumor entirely. ESD is performed through the mouth or anus without external incisions. The duration depends on lesion size. After monitoring, many patients are discharged the same day.
When Is ESD Applied?
ESD is used when superficial tumors are detected in the stomach, esophagus, or intestines.
It is appropriate for early-stage lesions without lymph node involvement. ESD provides a surgical alternative for larger or irregular tumors. Precancerous lesions detected early can also be removed with this technique. In cases where standard biopsies are insufficient, submucosal dissection offers both diagnosis and complete treatment. Proper patient selection is essential for high success rates.
What Is the Difference Between ESD and EMR?
ESD removes lesions in one piece, while EMR typically removes them in smaller fragments.
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is simpler and used for small, limited lesions. Submucosal dissection is applied to deeper or irregular lesions. EMR is technically shorter, but fragmented removal may complicate pathological assessment. ESD reduces recurrence risk by enabling complete removal in one piece. The choice depends on lesion size and depth.
Which Organs Can ESD Be Performed On?
ESD is most commonly performed in the esophagus, stomach, and colon.
It is used for early-stage tumors within the digestive tract. Gastric tumors, esophageal dysplasia, and intestinal polyps can be effectively treated. Only superficial layers of the organ wall are targeted to avoid deeper injury. Compared to surgery, it is less invasive and usually requires a shorter hospital stay. ESD is not routinely applied outside the digestive system.
How Is the Removed Tissue Analyzed After ESD?
The excised tissue is examined in a pathology laboratory to determine tumor type, stage, and margins.
The specimen undergoes histopathological processing. Under a microscope, cell structure and invasion depth are evaluated. Whether the tumor was completely removed with clear margins is confirmed.
This analysis determines the need for additional treatment. Tissue removed in one piece allows more accurate evaluation. Pathology results play a key role in follow-up planning.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection Prices 2026
ESD Treatment 2026 price information may vary depending on examinations, surgery plan and hospital process. For the most accurate and up-to-date price information, you can get information from our line at +90 (505) 311 77 36.
Is ESD Painful?
Since ESD is performed under sedation, patients generally do not feel pain during the procedure.
Sedation ensures comfort. After waking, mild throat irritation, abdominal pressure, or gas may occur. Severe pain is not expected, though slight discomfort may be present depending on lesion size. Pain relief medication can be used if necessary. Recovery is more comfortable compared to conventional surgery.
Is ESD or EMR More Effective?
For larger and deeper lesions, ESD provides more effective and lasting treatment than EMR.
Submucosal dissection enables complete removal in one piece, facilitating accurate pathology and lowering recurrence risk. EMR may be sufficient for small superficial lesions, but fragmented removal can complicate margin evaluation. ESD is preferred for high-risk or unclear-boundary lesions. Although EMR is shorter, ESD has lower recurrence rates.
When Is Discharge After ESD?
Most patients are evaluated and discharged about 24 hours after ESD.
Short observation is required, and discharge is possible the same or next day if no complications occur. Lesion location, size, and overall health influence this timeline. Nutrition starts with liquids and gradually progresses. Patients receive discharge instructions and follow-up plans.
Can Cancer Recur After ESD?
If the lesion is completely removed, recurrence risk after ESD is low.
Complete excision with clear margins significantly reduces local recurrence. However, regular follow-up remains important. Incomplete removal or new lesions in other areas may occur. Scheduled endoscopic monitoring ensures early detection.
Can Bleeding Occur After ESD?
Bleeding may occur after ESD but is usually manageable.
Blood vessels may be affected during dissection, leading to early or delayed bleeding. The risk is low when performed by experienced specialists. If bleeding occurs, it can often be controlled endoscopically. Patients using blood thinners may have higher risk. Careful monitoring minimizes complications.
Can a Mass Reappear in the Treated Area?
If the lesion is completely removed, recurrence in the same area is uncommon but not impossible.
Removal with clear margins greatly lowers recurrence risk. Rare microscopic remnants or new cellular changes may develop. Regular endoscopic follow-up is recommended. ESD reduces recurrence risk to levels similar to surgery. New lesions can usually be detected early and treated effectively.
How Long Does It Take to Return to Normal Life After ESD?
Most patients return to daily life within a few days after ESD.
Observation is required during the first 24 hours. Mild stomach pain, bloating, or fatigue may occur but usually resolve quickly. Nutrition begins with liquids and gradually returns to normal. Because it is minimally invasive, recovery is faster than surgery. Most individuals resume work and social activities within days. Following medical advice supports smooth recovery.