Cold EMR vs. Hot EMR for the removal of sessile serrated polyps larger than 10 mm: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BMC Surg. 2024 Mar 20;24(1):93. doi: 10.1186/s12893-024-02325-2.

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) appears to be a promising technique for the removal of sessile serrated polyps (SSPs) ≥ 10 mm. To assess the effectiveness and safety of EMR for removing SSPs ≥ 10 mm, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods: We conducted a thorough search of Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for relevant studies reporting on EMR of SSPs ≥ 10 mm, up until December 2023. Our primary endpoints of interest were rates of technical success, residual SSPs, and adverse events (AE).

Results: Our search identified 426 articles, of which 14 studies with 2262 SSPs were included for analysis. The rates of technical success, AEs, and residual SSPs were 100%, 2.0%, and 3.1%, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that the technical success rates were the same for polyps 10-19 and 20 mm, and en-bloc and piecemeal resection. Residual SSPs rates were similar in en-bloc and piecemeal resection, but much lower in cold EMR (1.0% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.034). AEs rates were reduced in cold EMR compared to hot EMR (0% vs. 2.9%, P = 0.168), in polyps 10-19 mm compared to 20 mm (0% vs. 4.1%, P = 0.255), and in piecemeal resection compared to en-bloc (0% vs. 0.7%, P = 0.169).

Conclusions: EMR is an effective and safe technique for removing SSPs ≥ 10 mm. The therapeutic effect of cold EMR is superior to that of hot EMR, with a lower incidence of adverse effects.

Prospero registration number: CRD42023388959.

Keywords: Adverse event; Endoscopic mucosal resection; Meta-analysis; Sessile serrated polyps.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenoma* / surgery
  • Colonic Polyps* / etiology
  • Colonic Polyps* / surgery
  • Colonoscopy / methods
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Endoscopic Mucosal Resection* / adverse effects
  • Gastrointestinal Neoplasms*
  • Humans