Gary Dunn, MD, has incorporated the minimally invasive approach at the OU Medical Center. Although TEM has been practiced in Europe for some time, it is not as widely practiced in the United States. According to the report, TEM is slowly becoming the preferred method of choice for patients and physicians for its minimal invasiveness, quick recovery and improved outcomes. The approach utilizes equipment that allows magnified vision and optics for removing tumors in the entire rectum.
In a recent study, researchers found that TEM was much more likely to result in a complete resection of the cancer with better margins, meaning it is less likely the cancer will recur. The study also found TEM is more likely to allow surgeons to remove the entire lesion intact, which makes pathologists’ evaluation much easier.
OU Medical Center is one of the fewer than 100 facilities in the country that can offer this as a treatment option to colorectal cancer patients. Dr. Dunn says the technique is not as widely used because of its “steep learning curve” for physicians.
Read the news release about transanal endoscopic microsurgery (pdf).
Read other coverage about colorectal cancer:
– Cowden Syndrome Patients Should Be Screened for Colorectal Cancer in Their 30s
– Menopausal Hormone Therapy Can Significantly Increase Women’s Risk of CRC
– Kentucky Demonstrates Successful Increase of CRC Screenings
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.