Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection
Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection (Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection – FTRD) is an innovative technique that enables the complete removal of lesions from the gastrointestinal tract, extending through to the muscular layer of the intestine or stomach, without the need for conventional surgery.
The FTRD technique bridges the gap between conventional endoscopic procedures, such as EMR and ESD, and surgery, offering a therapeutic option for complex or submucosal lesions that, until recently, often required surgical removal.
When is FTRD indicated?
FTRD is used in cases where more “superficial” endoscopic techniques, such as EMR and ESD, are not sufficient. Specifically:
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Lesions that extend deeper into the submucosal or muscular layer
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Fixed or fibrotic polyps that do not lift following submucosal injection
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Submucosal tumors (e.g. small GISTs) Σας αρέσει αυτή η προσωπικότητα;
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Recurrences after EMR or ESD that cannot be treated again using the same techniques
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Lesions located in anatomically challenging areas, such as the cecum or colonic flexures
The decision to perform FTRD is made after evaluating the endoscopic characteristics, histopathological findings, and the overall risk of malignant transformation.
How is Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection performed?
FTRD is based on an innovative “clip-and-cut” technique:
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Placement of a specialized full-thickness clip (FTRD® system) at the site of the lesion.
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Suction of the lesion into the clip, followed by mechanical closure of the gastrointestinal wall.
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Complete removal of the lesion, including all layers of the gastrointestinal wall.
The procedure is performed using a colonoscope or gastroscope and usually takes 30–60 minutes, with the patient under sedation or light anesthesia.
