Polypectomy & Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR)

A short guide for patients at Valley Gastroenterology

What is it?

Polypectomy removes polyps (abnormal tissue growths) during endoscopy using a snare or forceps. EMR is a specialized technique that lifts larger or flatter lesions with a fluid injection and removes them in one or several pieces—without surgery.

Why it’s done

  • Prevent colorectal cancer by removing precancerous adenomas
  • Diagnose and treat large or flat lesions found on prior colonoscopy/upper endoscopy
  • Control bleeding or remove lesions causing symptoms

How to prepare

  • Fasting: Follow the prep and fasting instructions for your procedure (colonoscopy or upper endoscopy).
  • Medications: Tell us about blood thinners, antiplatelets, diabetes meds, and GLP‑1s. Do not stop anything without our guidance; we’ll provide a safe plan.
  • Arrange a driver—sedation is used.

What to expect (day of)

  1. Check‑in & nursing assessment (15–30 min)
  1. Sedation for comfort
  1. Polyp removal with snare/forceps; for EMR we lift the lesion and remove it in one or more pieces
  1. We may use clips or tattoo ink to mark/close the area
  1. Recovery 30–60 minutes with a written summary

Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activity the next day unless told otherwise.

After you go home

  • Diet: Start with light foods; advance as tolerated. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
  • Medications: Use acetaminophen for discomfort. Avoid NSAIDs unless cleared. Resume blood thinners per the plan we give you.
  • Activity: Take it easy for 24 hours; avoid heavy lifting for 7 days after large EMR.
  • Small amounts of blood can be normal. Call us or go to the ER immediately for heavy bleeding, black/tarry stools, severe or worsening abdominal pain, fever >101°F, or persistent vomiting. Note that delayed bleeding can occur up to 14 days after removal.

Risks (uncommon)

Bleeding (sometimes delayed), perforation (tear), post‑polypectomy syndrome (pain/fever without a tear), reactions to sedation, and need for repeat procedures.

Results & follow‑up

  • If tissue was sent to pathology, results are typically ready in 7–14 days via phone or portal.
  • For large/complex lesions removed by EMR, a surveillance colonoscopy is usually scheduled at 6 months to check healing and remove any tiny regrowth.
  • Additional therapy (e.g., ESD or surgery) may be recommended if pathology shows deeper invasion or incomplete removal.

Alaska‑specific travel note

We monitor Mat‑Su weather and road conditions. If travel is unsafe, we’ll reschedule without penalty and prioritize your next available slot.

Scheduling & contact:

Valley Gastroenterology

3190 E Meridian Park Loop, Suite 206

Wasilla, Alaska 99654

Phone: (907) 373-2544

Fax: (844) 689-4240

Web: ValleyGastroAK.com