Can a 5 cm colon tumor be removed via colonoscopy?

Sep 25, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
A 5 cm colon tumor with a flat or elevated growth pattern and no obvious signs of infiltration, clear margins, without invasion into the muscular layer or surrounding tissues, and without lymph node metastasis can generally be removed via endoscopy. Under medical guidance, patients may undergo complete tumor resection through endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) or endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR).

A 5 cm colon tumor can generally be removed, but if it has already metastasized, removal via colonoscopy is usually not feasible. The specific analysis is as follows:

When a colon tumor measures 5 cm in size, exhibits a flat or elevated growth pattern, shows no obvious signs of infiltration, has clear margins, has not invaded the muscular layer or surrounding tissues, and there is no lymph node metastasis, it can typically be removed via colonoscopy. Under medical guidance, patients may undergo procedures such as endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) or endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) to completely remove the tumor through endoscopy. In such cases, the treatment involves minimal trauma and allows for rapid recovery, making it a suitable approach.

However, if the colon tumor is malignant and has already metastasized, colonoscopic removal is generally not recommended. This is because endoscopic surgery has certain limitations and may fail to completely remove all diseased tissue, increasing the risk of recurrence or disease progression. In such situations, doctors may recommend open abdominal surgery, followed by comprehensive treatments such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy.

If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a colon tumor, it is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and follow the doctor's recommendations for appropriate treatment.