Endoluminal Surgery Program

Minimally Invasive Endoscopic Treatments for GI Cancers and Conditions

The Endoluminal Surgery Program in the Center for Advanced Endoscopy at BIDMC represents the forefront of minimally invasive gastrointestinal care. Our expert team is able to perform advanced procedures using endoscopic tools, with the goal of preserving organ function and maximizing patient comfort. Endoscopic approaches avoid the need for skin incisions entirely, and allow for shorter and easier recovery than traditional surgical techniques. The procedures our team performs include Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD), Full-Thickness Resection (FTR), Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), and Zenker's Diverticulotomy.

Endoluminal procedures represent a minimally-invasive, and potentially curative treatment for a wide range of conditions including early esophageal cancers, early gastric cancers, large colon and rectum polyps, and other gastrointestinal tumors. Additionally, these techniques can be used to treat patients with achalasia, gastroparesis, and Zenker’s diverticulum.

One of the defining advantages of our care is the multidisciplinary approach. We collaborate closely with other specialties, including thoracic surgery, colorectal surgery, surgical oncology, and a wide variety of other specialists. This collaborative environment ensures comprehensive care for our patients, combining expertise from various fields to optimize treatment outcomes and patient experience.

To make an appointment or refer a patient, please contact us by phone at 617-754-8888 or send us a email.

Understanding your Procedure

The procedures we perform in Endoluminal Surgery are at the cutting edge of care, and the minimally invasive approach prioritizes patient comfort and a quicker recovery time.

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD)

Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) is a potentially curative approach for treating and staging early gastrointestinal cancers, offering the dual advantage of preserving the native organ and achieving curative resection. This technique is particularly beneficial for conditions like early-stage gastric cancer, esophageal cancer, and certain precancerous lesions, where organ preservation is critical for maintaining quality of life. ESD minimizes complications and speeds recovery compared to traditional surgery, making it a preferred choice for early GI cancers.

Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM)

Full-Thickness Resection (FTR or FTRD)

Full-Thickness Resection is an endoscopic approach used for the removal of complex lesions in the wall of the GI tract, including those in challenging locations or those that have submucosal involvement. Conditions such as non-lifting adenomas, early-stage cancers, and subepithelial tumors are effectively treated using FTRD. This method is minimally invasive and offers a safer, more comfortable alternative to traditional surgery, reducing recovery times.

Zenker's Diverticulotomy