Endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic submucosal dissection of epithelial neoplasia of the colon.

Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) with curative intent has evolved into a safe and effective technique and is currently the gold standard for management of large colonic epithelial neoplasms. Piecemeal EMR is associated with a high risk of local recurrence requiring vigilant surveillance and repeat interventions. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was introduced in Japan for the management of early gastric cancer, and has recently been described for en bloc resection of colonic lesions greater than 20 mm. En bloc resection allows accurate histological assessment of the depth of invasion, minimizes the risk of local recurrence and helps determine additional therapy. Morphologic classification of lesions prior to resection allows prediction of depth of invasion and risk of nodal metastasis, allowing selection of the appropriate intervention. This review provides an overview of the assessment of epithelial neoplasms of the colon and the application of EMR and ESD techniques in their management.