Water-Assisted Surgery Improves Colorectal Cancer Removal
Underwater endoscopic dissection reduces procedure time and bleeding compared to gas-assisted methods for colorectal neoplasia.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Cancer
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A 2025 multicenter randomized trial found that underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection is more efficient than gas-assisted techniques for removing colorectal lesions. The study of 295 patients demonstrates that water immersion provides superior visualization and stability during the procedure.
Why it matters
By replacing gas with water, surgeons can achieve a floating effect for lesions that improves visibility and safety. This approach offers a significant reduction in intraprocedural bleeding and smoke interference, potentially standardizing a more effective surgical technique.
Underwater dissection achieved an en bloc resection rate of 95.3% vs. 97.3% for gas-assisted methods. Patients experienced a median procedure time of 59 minutes for the underwater technique, compared to 70 minutes for standard gas-assisted procedures.
The players
UEG Week
United European Gastroenterology Week is a premier annual international conference where researchers present new findings in digestive health.
The details
Underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection involves filling the colonic lumen with water to act as a natural lens and stabilizer. Data indicates this method increased dissection speed to 27.0 mm²/min, while also reducing the need for hemostatic forceps compared to traditional gas methods.
Timeline
The multicenter randomized trial was conducted in Italy from December 2024 to December 2025.
Study findings were formally presented at UEG Week 2026 in Barcelona in October 2026.
Health Landscape
This study updates protocols previously established at the UEG Week 2026 surgical gastroenterology research presentations. It highlights a shift in endoscopic practice toward water-immersion techniques to improve patient safety and surgical precision.
Patients undergoing colorectal procedures may experience shorter surgery times and lower risks of bleeding thanks to this validated surgical method. This technique allows for more stable and efficient removal of lesions, potentially leading to smoother recovery periods.
The takeaway
Underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection represents a meaningful advancement in surgical efficiency for colorectal treatments. Physicians are increasingly adopting water-based visibility techniques to minimize complications during complex gastrointestinal procedures.
Further reading
For more on the latest research in oncology and surgical advancements, visit the Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Medscape.
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