How to adopt endoluminal surgery in a new colorectal surgery practice and endoluminal management of T1 colon cancers

Endoluminal surgery in colorectal surgery involves the removal of polyps/lesions using advanced colonoscopic techniques such as endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). Prior to the adoption of these techniques in a new colorectal surgery practice, a colorectal surgeon should have some mastery of basic colonoscopy skills along with colonoscopic polypectomy. There are a variety of training options to learn endoluminal surgery including industry and institutional based courses, observation of a master endoscopist, or observational experience in Japan. Adoption of these techniques in a new practice is facilitated by knowledge of what equipment is required and the availability of trained staff. Endoluminal management of T1 colon cancers is an acceptable method of treatment and an alternative to surgical resection provided that the proper parameters are met.