Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery

Surgeon and his assistant on blurred background
The anal canal illustration

Conveniently located to serve Raleigh

Surgeons use transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) to remove non-cancerous polyps (growths) or some early-stage cancerous tumors in the rectum. For the procedure, your surgeon will use a laparoscopic approach to access the anal canal. This procedure is also known as transanal endoscopic operations (TEO) or transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS). The specialty-trained colorectal surgeons at UNC REX are expert providers of transanal endoscopic microsurgery in Raleigh.

How Does Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery Work?

The colorectal surgeons at UNC REX use specialized state-of-the-art TEM equipment when performing transanal endoscopic microsurgery. An endoscope, a tool featuring an optical camera and a light, is highly advanced and projects detailed images onto an external monitor. This allows the surgeon to perform incredibly precise removal of growths.

The surgeon can precisely excise the growths and seal blood vessels using a TEM electric scalpel. Sutures, if needed, can be placed to repair the rectal wall. The patient is under general anesthesia during the entire surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery?
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery may help certain patients avoid more extensive, open abdominal surgeries. Advances in techniques and equipment allow surgeons to remove growths with TEM that were previously thought only treatable with traditional surgical methods. However, not everyone is eligible for this minimally invasive procedure, so your surgeon will work with you to decide which approach is best for you.
The Consultation

During a consultation, the patient will meet with the surgeon, who will listen to the patient’s symptoms. After a review of the patient’s medical history, the surgeon may order additional pre-operative tests to determine further details regarding the size and location of the growths. This information may factor into the conclusion as to whether or not the procedure is an advisable treatment approach.

The surgeon will go over the details of transanal endoscopic microsurgery to ensure proper patient education. A date will then be set for the procedure. The patient may be requested to do a pre-operative bowel cleanse the day before surgery.

What to Expect After Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery
Patients are typically discharged within 24 hours following surgery and can resume regular eating habits. Following any surgery, adhering to a lighter schedule allows the body to rest. Minor discomfort or a day or two of incontinence may occur, but these are temporary conditions.
How Much Does Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery Cost?

The cost of a TEM procedure varies based on each patient’s surgical plan and various additional fees, including fees for the operating facility and anesthesia. For patients with health insurance benefits, a portion of the procedure’s price may be covered as a medically necessary expense.


The knowledgeable patient billing staff at UNC REX will be able to provide more information regarding the process of having the surgery pre-approved. Patients will receive detailed price information during a surgical consultation.

Contact Us to Schedule a Consultation
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery is a highly effective minimally invasive surgery. Schedule your consultation today with a qualified UNC REX colorectal surgical specialist to determine if transanal endoscopic microsurgery in Raleigh is right for you.