Abstract
Even though the most common and accepted form of surgical treatment for colorectal cancer is the colectomy, other forms of surgical intervention are also available. One alternate form of treatment for colorectal cancer during its earlier stages is the endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). This method allows the surgeon to remove colorectal masses without the need for major invasive surgery, which could benefit the patient. This study is a retrospective review of all patients undergoing endoscopic mucosal resection of colorectal masses at Colorectal Surgery Service at Kaiser Permanente's Los Angeles Medical Center over the past 5 years. The purpose of this study is to determine the demographics of patients undergoing EMR, initial indications for colorectal EMR, diagnostic modality, initial and final pathology, complications and recurrence rate. Finally, cost comparisons of EMR and colectomy will be preformed. This retrospective review entails review of outpatient and inpatient medical records, clinic visit summaries and operative and diagnostic reports.
