Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a procedure used to remove early-stage cancer in the lining of the oesophagus (food pipe). 

It is like endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) in that the procedure is completed via endoscope.  However, ESD removes the abnormal area in one fragment.  A solution is injected into the wall of the oesophagus and the abnormal cells are removed with a small knife. Another advantage with ESD is that it removes deeper layers of tissue which gives reassurance that all the abnormal cells have been removed.  Since the area is removed in one piece this also enables a good quality sample to be sent to the lab for analysis and the pathologist is able to confirm whether all the disease has been removed.

This treatment is usually carried out as a day case under sedation or general anesthetic.  As you recover you may experience a sore throat, if the endoscope has passed through your mouth. An upset stomach or vomiting if your stomach or intestine were treated.  You may encounter excessive gas, bloating or cramping, especially if the doctors inflated the abdomen with air during treatment.