Roger Williams Gastroenterologist Performs First in Rhode Island Endoscopic Procedure for Tumor Removal

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Roger Williams Medical Center gastroenterologist Dr. Thaer Abdelfattah successfully performed Rhode Island’s first two Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection (ESD) procedures. ESD is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive technique used to remove early-stage

cancers and precancerous lesions from the digestive tract without the need for major surgery, allowing for faster recovery and fewer complications.

In these first two cases, Dr. Abdelfattah removed a gastric lesion in one patient and a rectal precancerous polyp in another. While ESD has been available at large medical centers in cities like Boston, this milestone marks the first time patients in Rhode Island can access this advanced treatment locally, bringing world-class care closer to home.

Using a flexible endoscope equipped with a camera and endoscopic knives and accessories, ESD allows physicians to remove lesions from the esophagus, stomach, colon, and rectum without external incisions. This organ-sparing technique results in less pain and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.

Dr. Abdelfattah commented, “Roger Williams is pleased to bring this option of care and expertise to patients locally, especially since it offers better functional outcomes compared to traditional surgeries for select patients,”. He added that one patient was able to return home the same day, while the second patient stayed overnight and was discharged the following day. Both patients have recovered well.

In addition to improving patient comfort and recovery time, ESD enables doctors to remove large lesions in one piece, improving diagnostic accuracy and providing crucial cancer staging information. The procedure also lowers healthcare costs by reducing the need for more invasive surgeries and prolonged hospital stays.

CharterCARE CEO Jeff Liebman stated, “This is just the latest proof of our market leadership in the field of gastroenterology, led by our Director Dr. Nabil Toubia, whose experience and vision helps advance the practice in Rhode Island by introducing new procedures. It also reflects the interdisciplinary and collaborative effort at Roger Williams Cancer Center to improve care.”