Rectal Adenoma

This prospective, single-center, observational feasibility and safety study will evaluate the use of the GelPOINT® Path transanal access platform during endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for the removal of colorectal polyps. The GelPOINT® Path system is designed to improve access, maintain stable insufflation, and enhance visualization during advanced endoscopic procedures. The study will enroll adult patients undergoing ESD for eligible colorectal lesions. The primary objective is to evaluate the technical feasibility, procedural performance, and safety of GelPOINT® Path-assisted ESD. Procedural outcomes, including procedure speed, technical success, resection outcomes, and procedure-related adverse events, will be collected prospectively. Participants will receive standard clinical care and will be followed for approximately 4 weeks after the procedure to assess delayed adverse events.

1.1 Polyps or tumours in the lower part of the bowel (rectum) can be removed using instruments inserted through the bottom which avoids major surgery and the possibility of a stoma bag (colostomy). Afterwards, it is important to check the area with regular camera tests. If checks are delayed, re-growths could be serious and may be untreatable. COVID and other factors have led to long waiting lists for camera checks and in NHS Lothian around 20% of all camera checks are done more than 6 months late. The investigators want to try a new camera and approach that would allow us to reduce waiting lists. Using a short camera called a 'rectoscope' to check the lower bowel has already been shown to be safe, comfortable and acceptable to patients with other conditions. In fact, patients are unlikely to feel or realise any difference between the rectoscope and standard camera tests. The investigators want to show that this 'rectoscope' can be safely used in the outpatient clinic with an enema (suppository) instead of strong bowel medicine taken by mouth the day before. This would mean the camera checks happen on time and would reduce waiting lists for other important tests. The investigators will include 30 patients across three stages of our study. In the first set of patients, the investigators will use the rectoscope alongside the usual endoscope in the endoscopy room using the usual oral bowel medicine. This stage will check the rectoscope is acceptable to the patient and the doctor. In the next 10 patients the investigators will use a suppository instead of oral bowel medicine still using both cameras. Finally, the investigators will use the rectoscope in the outpatient clinic with an suppository to show this is an easy, effective and acceptable way to deliver timely camera checks.

This study evaluates how advanced endoscopic resection techniques affect treatment outcomes in adults with rectal cancer. Rectal cancer has traditionally been treated with standard abdominal surgery. Newer endoscopic techniques allow removal of selected early tumors and may reduce treatment-related complications. However, their effectiveness and safety in tumors with deeper invasion are not yet fully established. This multicenter retrospective observational study uses existing medical records from adults who underwent endoscopic or surgical resection of rectal tumors between 2015 and 2025. Researchers will analyze anonymized information on procedures performed and treatment outcomes to assess the safety and effectiveness of advanced endoscopic approaches. The results of this study may help guide treatment selection and improve care for people with rectal cancer.