Gastroenterology
Main Line Health gastroenterology works to resolve digestive issues and GI conditions. Find the right solution for your digestive conditions at one of our Philadelphia locations.
Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery
What is transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM)?
Rectal lesions, polyps, and some early stage cancers can be treated with transanal resection and transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM). TEM is a minimally invasive technique that involves passing an endoscope through the anus. The endoscope is equipped with tiny microsurgical instruments, which allow the surgeon to remove cancerous tissue and other abnormal growths without the need for full abdominal surgery and without making any cuts in the skin.
What to expect from transanal endoscopic microsurgery
TEM is performed while you're under general anesthesia (sleeping). The surgeon uses low-pressure gas to distend your rectum, making it easier to move around within the cavity and more easily view and access problem areas. Once a tumor or lesion is removed, the surgeon can stitch the area while still working endoscopically. Recovery from TEM is usually brief, and you'll be able to return quickly to daily activities with less pain, less bleeding and less risk of infection than with traditional surgery.
The internationally renowned rectal cancer program at Lankenau Medical Center is first in the Philadelphia region and 12th in the nation to earn accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a program developed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) to improve the care of rectal cancer patients across the country.
Main Line Health legacy and leadership with TEM
Main Line Health surgeons were the first to perform local excision (removal) of rectal cancer using TEM after preoperative radiation. Main Line Health is one of two TEM training centers in the United States and we serve as a teaching center for surgeons nationally and internationally. We are also proud to be the headquarters of the International Network of Comprehensive Rectal Cancer Centers.