| [ Summary ] |
Mucosal cancer displaying histological penetration is limited to the proper mucosal layer usually has no risk of lymph-node involvement. Therefore, it is an appropriate candidate for endoscopic mucosal resection. The authors developed an EMRC procedure using a transparent plastic cap. One handred fourty five cases received mucosal resection using this procedure and the other procedures. In our early treatments one perforation and one case of severe stenosis were encountered, and both patients were successfully treated. No recurrences were observed in clearly indicated cases. Use of EMR on m3 or sm1 patients is still controvercial because of about a 10% Iymph node involvement. In these cases the treatment of choice should be decided by the patients' physical conditions along with the patients' decisions aided by informed consent. Endoscopic mucosal resection is considered to be a safe and beneficial treatment for mucosal cancer of the esophagus, leading to complete recovery. |