Systematic review and meta-analysis of safety and efficacy of laparoscopic resection for gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the stomach

Defining Textbook Outcomes for Minimally Invasive Surgical Resection of Small Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) of the Stomach

BACKGROUND

Textbook outcome (TO) has been utilized to assess the quality of surgical care. This study aimed to define TO rates for minimally invasive gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) resections in a bi-institutional cohort.

METHODS

Patients with gastric GIST (≤ 5 cm) who underwent laparoscopic or robotic resection (January 2014 to January 2024) were retrospectively identified from two GIST centers. We excluded patients with concurrent procedures, tumor involvement of adjacent organs, or metastatic disease. To balance perioperative and oncologic outcomes, we defined TO as: R0 resection, no conversion to open surgery, operative time ≤ 120 min, no perioperative transfusions, no intraoperative complications, no Clavien-Dindo ≥ II complications, hospital length of stay (LOS) ≤ 3 days, no 90-day readmission or death, no tumor rupture, and recurrence-free status at 2 years (5% predicted recurrence risk for tumors with a low mitotic index).

RESULTS

A total of 83 patients were included. TO was achieved in 62.7% of cases (N = 52). Mean tumor size was 3.0 ± 1.0 cm and 86.7% of GIST were modified-NIH low or very low risk (i.e., mitotic index ≤5/mm2). Mean operative time was 102.7 ± 49.3 minutes. Mean LOS was 2.3 ± 1.2 days. Among non-TO cases, the most common disqualifying factors were operative time > 120 minutes (N = 20, 24.1%) and LOS > 3 days (N = 15, 18.1%). There were four 90-day readmissions (4.8%) and one case with staple line bleeding requiring endoscopic clipping. During a mean follow-up of 32.6 ± 24.1 months, 3 patients (3.6%) recurred within 2 years. On multivariable regression analysis, no factors were independently associated with non-TO.

CONCLUSIONS

Minimally invasive gastric GIST resection is well-described. Herein, we propose new TO standards to serve as a measure of short- and long-term outcomes for monitoring institutional performance.

Comparison of endoscopic and laparoscopic resection of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A propensity score-matched study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection (ER) and laparoscopic resection (LR) have been widely used for the treatment of non-metastatic gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (gGISTs) (2-5 cm), but there are no selection criteria for their application.

AIM

To provide a reference for the development of standardized treatment strategies for gGISTs.

METHODS

Clinical baseline characteristics, histopathological results, and short-term and long-term outcomes of patients who treated with ER or LR for gGISTs of 2-5 cm in Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province from January 2014 to August 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to achieve balance in baseline characteristics of the two groups.

RESULTS

Among 206 patients, 135 were in the ER group and 71 in the LR group. The ER group had significantly smaller tumors [3.5 cm (3.0-4.0 cm) vs 4.2 cm (3.3-5.0 cm), P < 0.001] and different tumor locations (P = 0.048). After PSM, 59 pairs of patients were balanced. After matching, the baseline characteristics of the ER and LR groups did not differ significantly from each other. Compared with LR, ER had faster recovery of diet (P = 0.046) and fewer postoperative symptoms (P = 0.040). LR achieved a higher complete resection rate (P < 0.001) and shorter operation time (P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in postoperative hospital stay (P = 0.478), hospital costs (P = 0.469), complication rates (P > 0.999), pathological features (mitosis, P = 0.262; National Institutes of Health risk classification, P = 0.145), recurrence rates (P = 0.476), or mortality rates (P = 0.611).

CONCLUSION

Both ER and LR are safe and effective treatments for gGISTs. ER has less postoperative pain and faster recovery, while LR has a higher rate of complete resection.

Long-term outcomes of endoscopic therapy versus surgical resection for 2-5 cm gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A population-based comparative study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic therapy (ET) of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) has become a viable treatment. We intended to compare long-term outcomes of ET versus surgical resection for 2-5 cm GIST using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective study was conducted to compare the long-term outcomes of patients treated with ET and surgical resection for GIST. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify predictors for patients survival. To balance the clinicopathologic characteristics, a 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was utilized.

RESULTS

A total of 749 patients with 2-5 cm GIST were enrolled, of whom 113 accepted ET and 636 underwent surgical resection. Before PSM, there was no significant difference in long-term outcomes between ET and surgical resection (5-year overall survival (OS): 93.5% vs. 91.6%, P=0.374; 5-year cancer-specific survival (CSS): 99.1% vs. 96.5%, P=0.546; 10-year OS: 71.1% vs. 78.2%, P=0.374; 10-year CSS: 93.6% vs. 92.7%, P=0.546). After adjusting for the relevant variables using the multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, we observed that the ET and surgical resection groups were similar in OS (HR 0.726, 95%CI 0.457-1.153, P=0.175) and CSS (HR 1.286, 95%CI 0.474-3.488, P=0.621). After PSM, the long-term OS and CSS of patients with 2-5 cm GIST after ET and surgical resection were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the long-term survival of patients with 2-5 cm gastric GIST after ET and surgical resection were comparable. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the role of ET in 2-5 cm GIST.

Endoscopic Treatment for Gastric Subepithelial Tumor

Most gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs) are asymptomatic and are often incidentally discovered during endoscopic procedures conducted for unrelated reasons. Although surveillance is sufficient for the majority of gastric SETs, certain cases necessitate proactive management. Laparoscopic wedge resection, although a viable treatment option, has its limitations, particularly in cases where SETs (especially those with intraluminal growth) are not visualized on the peritoneal side. Recent advances in endoscopic instruments and technology have paved the way for the feasibility of endoscopic resection of SETs. Several promising endoscopic techniques have emerged for gastric SET resection, including submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR), laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS), and non-exposure EFTR (non-exposed endoscopic wall-inversion surgery and non-exposure simple suturing EFTR). This study aimed to discuss the indications, methods, and outcomes of endoscopic therapy for gastric SETs. In addition, a simplified diagram of the category of SETs according to the therapeutic indications and an algorithm for the endoscopic management of SET is suggested.

Classification of GIST and other benign gastric tumors based on minimally invasive surgical strategy

PURPOSE

Gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors (GMTs) include malignant, intermediate malignancy, and benign lesions. The aim is to propose a new surgical classification to guide the intraoperative minimally invasive surgical strategy in case of non-malignant GMTs less than 5 cm.

METHODS

Primary endpoint is the creation of a classification regarding minimally invasive surgical technique for these tumors based on their gastric location. Secondary endpoint is to analyze the R0 rate and the postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Tumors were classified in two groups based on their morphology (group A: exophytic, group B: transmural/intragastric). Each group is then divided based on the tumor location and consequently surgical technique used in subgroup: AI (whole stomach area) and AII (iuxta-cardial and pre-pyloric areas) both for the anterior and posterior gastric wall; BIa (greater curvature on the anterior and posterior wall), BIb (lesser curvature on the anterior wall); BII (iuxta-cardial and pre-pyloric area in the anterior and posterior wall, including the lesser curvature on the posterior wall).

RESULTS

Forty-two patients were classified and allocated in each subgroup: 17 in AI, 2 in AII, 5 in BIa, 3 in BIb, and 15 in BII. Two postoperative Clavien-Dindo I complications (4.8%, subgroup BIa and BIb) occurred. One patient (2.4%, subgroup AI) underwent reintervention due to R0 resection.

CONCLUSIONS

This classification proved to be able to classify gastric lesions based on their morphology, location, and surgical treatment, obtaining encouraging perioperative results. Further studies with wider sample of patients are required to draw definitive conclusions.

Molecular Advances in the Treatment of Advanced Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor

Most gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are driven by activating mutations in Proto-oncogene c-KIT (KIT) or PDGFRA receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK). The emergence of effective therapies targeting these mutations has revolutionized the management of advanced GIST. However, following initiation of first-line imatinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), nearly all patients will develop resistance within 2 years through the emergence of secondary resistance mutations in KIT, typically in the Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)-binding site or activation loop of the kinase domain. Moreover, some patients have de novo resistance to imatinib, such as those with mutations in PDGFRA exon 18 or those without KIT or PDGFRA mutation. To target resistance, research efforts are primarily focused on developing next-generation inhibitors of KIT and/or PDGFRA, which can inhibit alternate receptor conformations or unique mutations, and compounds that impact complimentary pathogenic processes or epigenetic events. Here, we review the literature on the medical management of high-risk localized and advanced GIST and provide an update on clinical trial approaches to this disease.

A vanished gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor

BACKGROUND

Local resection is the standard treatment for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) is a minimally invasive surgery used to resect GISTs. Herein, we report an extremely rare case of a gastric GIST that grossly vanished during LECS.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 50-year-old Japanese female was referred to our hospital after an abnormality was detected during an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at her annual health checkup. Based on EGD, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and computer tomography (CT) findings, the patient was diagnosed with a 50-mm submucosal tumor (SMT) with intraluminal growth on the anterior wall of the lesser curvature of the upper body of the stomach. We routinely use LECS to treat the intraluminal growth type of GISTs. During the intraoperative endoscopy, the intraluminal submucosal tumor, which was detected preoperatively, had vanished. A red-white scar was observed in the regressed tumor region. LECS was performed by resecting at a distance away from the scar tissue and closing the gastric wall with intracavitary sutures. In the evaluation from the tumor section view of the original resected specimen, a 22 × 14 × 8 mm lobular neoplasm was observed that was predominantly located in the gastric submucosa to the muscularis propia. Pathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of GIST with intermediate risk indicated by the Fletcher classification. The patient continued postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy with imatinib and no recurrence was detected over 12 months after surgery.

CONCLUSION

LECS was performed on the vanished gastric GIST, providing the best surgical treatment and leading to an accurate diagnosis and optimal postoperative care.

Laparoendoscopic assisted surgery for a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): A case report

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are infrequent, and clinical presentation varies between asymptomatic and diffuse symptoms such as abdominal pain and dyspepsia. Surgical approach depends on location and size of the tumor. There are some reports of the specific surgical approach for GIST located at the gastroesophageal junction. This is a case report of a patient with a GIST located specifically at the gastroesophageal junction and the surgical approach selected for the treatment.

PRESENTATION OF THE CASE

A 70-year-old patient who developed an episode of upper gastrointestinal bleeding with hemorrhagic shock accompanied by elevated troponins that required transfusion therapy and whose endoscopic evaluation showed a subcardial ulcerated lesion of 16 × 5 mm, located 2 cm below the z-line. The lesion was biopsied and was negative for malignancy. A combined surgical approach for resection by combined laparoscopy and submucosal resection by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed by the interventional gastroenterology service and surgical oncology service.

DISCUSSION

Specific management of GISTs depends on the location of the tumor, even though, complete surgical resection remains the gold standard treatment. Minimally invasive techniques can be used to assess these tumors leading to shorter hospital stays and lesser risk of complications. Laparoendoscopic cooperative surgery is a promising approach for managing lesions near the gastroesophageal junction.

CONCLUSION

GISTs located near the gastroesophageal junction require a complex approach. The laparaendoscopic approach seems to be a feasible approach for GIST in the gastroesophageal junction.

Advances of endoscopic and surgical management in gastrointestinal stromal tumors

As one of the most common mesenchymal malignancies in the digestive system, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) occur throughout the alimentary tract with diversified oncological characteristics. With the advent of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor era, the treatment regimens of patients with GISTs have been revolutionized and GISTs have become the paradigm of multidisciplinary therapy. However, surgery resection remains recognized as the potentially curative management for the radical resection and provided with favorable oncological outcomes. The existing available surgery algorithms in clinical practice primarily incorporate open procedure, and endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery together with combined operation techniques. The performance of various surgery methods often refers to the consideration of risk evaluation of recurrence and metastases; the degree of disease progression; size, location, and growth pattern of tumor; general conditions of selected patients; and indications and safety profile of various techniques. In the present review, we summarize the fundamental principle of surgery of GISTs based on risk assessment as well as tumor size, location, and degree of progress with an emphasis on the indications, strengths, and limitations of current surgery techniques.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors and the General Surgeon

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract but are the most common sarcoma. This review covers aspects of the care of patients with GIST relevant to surgeons. In particular, management of sub-2 cm GISTs, the utility of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy for primary GISTs, and indications for surgery in the setting of metastatic disease are discussed.

Safety and feasibility of laparoscopy-assisted surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumors larger than 5 cm: Results of a retrospective, single-center series of 1,802 consecutive patients

BACKGROUND

The role of laparoscopy-assisted resection for treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors >5 cm is still disputed. We aimed to assess the advantages of laparoscopy-assisted resection for treating gastrointestinal stromal tumors >5 cm.

METHODS

In total, 1,802 patients with primary gastrointestinal stromal tumors who underwent laparoscopy-assisted surgery or open surgery were retrospectively evaluated. Propensity score matching was performed to reduce confounders.

RESULTS

In total, 518 patients with tumor size >5 cm were enrolled in this study (males: 292, 56.4%; females: 226, 43.6%; median age: 58 years, range: 23-85 years). One hundred and twenty-three (23.7%) patients underwent laparoscopy-assisted resection, and 395 (76.3%) patients underwent open resection. After propensity score matching, 190 patients were included (95 in each group). The laparoscopy-assisted surgery group was superior to the open surgery group considering the blood loss (>200 mL: 6.3% vs 22.1%, P = .005), length of midline incision (6.0 ± 0.9 cm vs 9.6 ± 2.1 cm, P < .001), time to first flatus (49.7 ± 10.5 hours vs 63.9 ± 7.4 hours, P < .001), and shorter hospital stay (10.3 ± 3.2 days vs 11.9 ± 2.9 days, P < .001). The difference in relapse-free survival or overall survival between the laparoscopy-assisted surgery and open surgery groups after matching was not significant (all P > .05). On subgroup analysis, the relapse-free survival and overall survival of the laparoscopy-assisted surgery group were comparable to those of the open surgery group, irrespective of tumor location (gastric or nongastric locations) (all P > .05).

CONCLUSION

When performed by experienced surgeons, laparoscopy-assisted resection is feasible and safe for gastrointestinal stromal tumors >5 cm, which showed improved short-term outcomes and comparable oncological outcomes, regardless of whether the tumor had a gastric or nongastric location.

Comparison of safety and short-term outcomes between endoscopic and laparoscopic resections of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors with a diameter of 2-5 cm

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Developments of endoscopic techniques brought the possibility of endoscopic resection for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) of larger sizes. We aim to compare safety and short-term outcomes between endoscopic and laparoscopic resections of gastric GISTs with a diameter of 2-5 cm.

METHODS

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study. The clinical data, perioperative conditions, and the adverse events of patients who underwent endoscopic or laparoscopic resection for gastric GIST of 2-5 cm in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, from January 2016 to December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 346 patients were reviewed; 12 patients who failed to accomplish the planned procedure were excluded; 182 underwent laparoscopic resection; and 152 underwent endoscopic resection. Significant differences exist in the tumor size between the laparoscopic group (3.43 ± 0.86 cm) and the endoscopic group (2.78 ± 0.73 cm) (P < 0.01). Compared with laparoscopic resection, endoscopic resection was associated with faster recovery (P < 0.01), shorter hospital stays (P < 0.01), and lower cost (P < 0.01). The incidence of Clavien-Dindo grade II-V adverse events in the endoscopic group (3/152) was significantly lower than that in the laparoscopic group (12/182) (P = 0.04). After a propensity score matching analysis, the endoscopic group showed similar incidences of complications with the laparoscopic group, while the advantages over laparoscopic resection in postoperative hospital stay, time to first oral intake, and hospitalization expenses remained significant (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic resection is a safe and cost-effective method for 2-5 cm of gastric GISTs compared with laparoscopic resection.

Treatment of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): A Focus on Younger Patients

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) originate from Cajal's cells and are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. GISTs in young adults, i.e., patients before the age of 40, are rare and differ from those in older patients and GISTs in children in terms of the molecular and clinical features, including the location and type of mutations. They often harbor other molecular abnormalities than KIT and PDGFRA mutations (wild-type GISTs). The general principles of therapeutic management in young patients are the same as in the elderly. Considering some differences in molecular abnormalities, molecular testing should be the standard procedure to allow appropriate systemic therapy if needed. The optimal treatment strategy should be established by a multidisciplinary team experienced in sarcoma treatment. The impact of treatment on the quality of life and daily activities, including the impact on work, pregnancy, and fertility, in this patient population should be especially taken into consideration.

Hand-assisted laparoscopic resection versus total laparoscopic gastric surgery for primary gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): an analysis from a high-volume institution

Background

Laparoscopic resection of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is technically feasible and associated with favorable outcomes. We compared the clinical efficacy of hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HLS) and total laparoscopic surgery (TLS) for gastric GISTs.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 69 consecutive patients diagnosed with a gastric GIST in a tertiary referral teaching hospital from December 2016 to December 2020. Surgical outcomes were compared between two groups.

Results

Fifty-three patients (TLS group: n = 36; HLS group: n = 17) were included. The mean age was 56.9 and 58.1 years in the TLS and HLS groups, respectively. The maximum tumor margin was significantly shorter in the HLS group than in the TLS group (2.3 ± 0.9. vs. 3.0 ± 0.8 cm; P = 0.004). The operative time of the HLS group was significantly shorter than that of the TLS group (70.6 ± 19.1 min vs. 134.4 ± 53.7 min; P < 0.001). The HLS group had less intraoperative blood loss, a shorter time to first flatus, and a shorter time to fluid diet than the TLS group (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found between the groups in the incidence or severity of complications within 30 days after surgery. Recurrence or metastasis occurred in four cases (HLS group; n = 1; TLS group; n = 3).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that compared with TLS, HLS for gastric GISTs has the advantages of simpler operation, shorter operative time, and faster postoperative recovery.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Surgery for Rectal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Multicenter Propensity Score-Matched Analysis

BACKGROUND

The safety and feasibility of laparoscopic surgery for the management of rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors are unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the surgical and oncologic results of laparoscopic versus open surgery for the treatment of rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

DESIGN

This was a retrospective multicenter propensity score-matched study to minimize heterogeneity between groups and focus on the difference between surgery strategies.

SETTINGS

Eleven Chinese tertiary hospitals participated in this study.

PATIENTS

A total of 364 patients with pathologically confirmed rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors were retrospectively analyzed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relapse-free survival, postoperative hospital stay length, and 30-day postoperative complication rate were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

We enrolled 214 patients who underwent surgical operation for primary localized rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors. After propensity score matching, 134 cases involved in the comparison (67 laparoscopic vs 67 open surgery) were randomly matched (1:1) by sex, age, tumor size, tumor site, and neoadjuvant therapy. The laparoscopic surgery group had superior relapse-free survival (χ2 = 4.46, p = 0.04), and fewer complications (6.0% vs 25.4%, p = 0.002). No significant difference was found in the length of postoperative hospital stay between the laparoscopic surgery and open surgery groups (9.66 ± 5.42 vs. 10.64 ± 4.93, p = 0.28). Subgroup analysis showed that the laparoscopic surgery group had superior relapse-free survival (χ2 = 4.14, p = 0.04) and fewer complications after surgery (2.9% vs 24.4%, p = 0.01) in the rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors ≤5 cm subgroup.

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by the nature of retrospective reviews and relatively short follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgery offers a safe and feasible option for the radical resection of primary localized rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors, especially for patients with rectal gastrointestinal stromal tumors ≤5 cm. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/B764.

CIRUGA LAPAROSCPICA VERSUS CIRUGA ABIERTA PARA TUMORES DEL ESTROMA GASTROINTESTINAL DE RECTO UN ANLISIS MULTICNTRICO EMPAREJADO POR PUNTAJE DE PROPENSIN

ANTECEDENTES:Se desconoce la seguridad y factibilidad de la cirugía laparoscópica para el tratamiento de los tumores del estroma gastrointestinal de recto.OBJETIVO:Comparar los resultados quirúrgicos y oncológicos de la cirugía laparoscópica versus cirugía abierta para el tratamiento de los tumores del estroma gastrointestinal de recto.DISEÑO:Estudio retrospectivo multicéntrico emparejado por puntuación de propensión para minimizar la heterogeneidad entre los grupos y centrarse en las diferencias entre las estrategias quirúrgicas.AJUSTES:Once hospitales terciarios de la China participaron en este estudio.PACIENTES:Se analizaron retrospectivamente un total de 364 pacientes con tumores del estroma gastrointestinal de recto confirmados patológicamente.PRINCIPALES MEDIDAS DE VALORACION:Supervivencia sin recidiva, duración de la estancia hospitalaria postquirúrgica y tasa de complicaciones postquirúrgicas a los 30 días.RESULTADOS:Inscribimos a 214 pacientes que fueron sometidos a cirugía por tumores primariamente localizados del estroma gastrointestinal de recto. Después del emparejamiento por puntaje de propensión, 134 casos involucrados en la comparación (67 laparoscópicos versus 67 cirugía abierta) fueron emparejados aleatoriamente (1: 1) por sexo, edad, tamaño del tumor, sitio del tumor y terapia neoadyuvante. El grupo de cirugía laparoscópica tuvo una supervivencia sin recidiva superior (χ2 = 4,46, p = 0,04) y menos complicaciones (6,0% frente a 25,4%, p = 0,002). No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la duración de la estancia hospitalaria postquirúrgica entre los grupos de cirugía laparoscópica y cirugía abierta (9,66 ± 5,42 frente a 10,64 ± 4,93, p = 0,28). El análisis de subgrupos mostró que el grupo de cirugía laparoscópica tuvo una supervivencia sin recidiva superior (χ2 = 4,14, p = 0,04) y menos complicaciones después de la cirugía (2,9% frente a 24,4%, p = 0,01) en el subgrupo de tumores del estroma gastrointestinal de recto ≤ 5 cm.LIMITACIONES:La naturaleza de la revisión retrospectiva y el período de seguimiento relativamente corto son limitaciones de este estudio.CONCLUSIONES:La cirugía laparoscópica ofrece una opción segura y factible para la resección radical de tumores primariamente localizados del estroma gastrointestinal de recto, especialmente para pacientes con tumores ≤5 cm. Consulte Video Resumen en http://links.lww.com/DCR/B764.

The Diagnosis of Small Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Lesions by Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration and Biopsy

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has been widely accepted in the diagnosis of all types of tumors, especially pancreatic tumors, lymph nodes, and subepithelial lesions (SELs). One reason is that the examination can provide a detailed observation, with tissue samples being immediately obtained by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA). Many SELs are detected incidentally during endoscopic examinations without symptoms. Most SELs are mesenchymal tumors originating from the fourth layer, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), leiomyomas, and schwannomas. GISTs are potentially malignant. Surgical treatment is recommended for localized GISTs of ≥20 mm. However, the indications for the diagnosis and follow-up of GISTs of <20 mm in size are controversial. There are several reports on the rapid progression or metastasis of small GISTs. Therefore, it is important to determine whether a SEL is a GIST or not. The main diagnostic method is EUS-FNA. Recently, endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) using a new biopsy needle has been reported to obtain larger tissue samples. Additionally, various biopsy methods have been reported to have a high diagnostic rate for small GISTs. In local gastric SELs, regardless of the tumor size, EUS can be performed first; then, EUS-FNA/B or various biopsy methods can be used to obtain tissue samples for decision-making in relation to therapy and the follow-up period.

Open and minimally invasive surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a systematic review and network meta-analysis protocol

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumours of the digestive system, and complete resection is the only way to provide a radical cure for resectable GISTs. Open surgery and minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopy, robotic surgery and endoscopy, consist of the mainstream GIST resection. However, there is still a lack of evidence regarding which surgical outcomes and long-term prognosis would be better. Thus, we are planning to conduct a network meta-analysis and systematic review aiming to determine the comparative effectiveness among laparotomy, laparoscopy, endoscopy, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery in GISTs.

METHOD AND ANALYSIS

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science will be searched for published studies to identify the proper literature comparing open resection, laparoscopy, endoscopy, robotic surgery, and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for resecting GISTs from inception to February 2021. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomised studies comparing at least two different interventions for GIST resection will be included. RCTs and non-randomised studies will be synthesised and analysed separately. Bayesian network meta-analysis will be performed to compare the surgical outcomes and long-term prognosis among the resection methods above. The included studies will be divided into several subgroups according to tumour location and size for further analysis. Sensitivity analysis will be performed to identify and explain heterogeneity to make our results robust. Meta-regression will serve as a supplementary method if data are available. The quality of evidence will be evaluated by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethical approval is required for this network meta-analysis, as it is based on already published data. The findings of the review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021237892.

Comparison Among Endoscopic, Laparoscopic, and Open Resection for Relatively Small Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (<5 cm): A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

Background

Endoscopic resection (ESR) is a novel minimally invasive procedure for superficial tumors. Its safety, efficiency, and outcome for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (gGISTs) less than 5 cm remains unclear compared to laparoscopic resection (LAR) and open resection (ONR). The current network meta-analysis aimed to review and analyze the available evidence of this question.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify eligible studies published up to July 6, 2020. The perioperative and long-term oncological outcomes among ESR, LAR, and ONR for gGIST (<5 cm) were estimated through the Bayesian network meta-analysis with a random-effect model.

Results

Fifteen studies with 1,631 patients were included. ESR was associated with a shorter operative time [mean difference, MD: -36; 95% confidence interval, CI (-55, -16)], a higher rate of positive margin [odds ratio, OR: 5.1 × 10¹⁰, 95% CI (33, 2.5 × 10³²)], and less costs [MD: -1 × 10⁴, 95% CI (-1.6 × 10⁴, -4.4 × 10³)] but similar time to resume flatus [MD: 0.52, 95% CI (-0.16, 1.1)] and diet [MD: -3.5, 95% CI (-5.6, -1.6)] compared to LAR. A higher rate of total complications [OR: 11, 95% CI (1.2, 140)] was observed in patients who received ESR compared to patients who received LAR. After excluding perforation from the total complication category, the difference of complication between ESR and LAR disappeared [OR: 0.87, 95% CI (0.22, 2.3)]. The recurrence rate [OR: 1.3, 95% CI (0.40, 4.5)] and disease-free survival [hazard ratio: 1.26, 95% CI (0.60, 2.63)] showed no significant difference between ESR and LAR. ESR was associated with better or equivalent perioperative and long-term outcomes compared to ONR, except for positive margin. A subgroup analysis (<2 and 2–5 cm) showed no significantly different results among these three procedures either.

Conclusion

ESR was shown to be a safe and efficient alternative procedure to both LAR and ONR for gGISTs less than 2 cm and within 2–5 cm, respectively, without worsening the oncologic outcomes. However, preoperative assessment of tumor site is of importance for the determination of procedures regarding the increased incidence of a positive margin related to ESR.

A scoring system to predict surgical difficulty in minimally invasive surgery for gastric submucosal tumors

BACKGROUND

Various minimally invasive surgery (MIS) procedures are used for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs), and their technical difficulties vary. Preoperative understanding of difficulties is crucial; however, objective indicators are lacking.

METHODS

Gastric SMTs requiring MIS (n = 36) were retrospectively analyzed. Preoperative factors were evaluated using a multivariate linear regression analysis. A scoring system was then constructed, and its feasibility was evaluated.

RESULTS

Three factors were identified and scored based on the weighted contribution for predicting surgical time: tumor location (cardia, score of "2"; posterior wall of fundus, "1"); tumor size (greater than 4 cm, "1"); and tumor growth appearance (intraluminal, "1"). The summed scores could stratify the surgical time stepwise in each score, and patients who scored higher than 3 had larger intraoperative blood loss and a longer hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

Our scoring system predicted surgical difficulties and may, therefore, be useful in selecting appropriate surgical approaches for gastric SMTs.

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Intragastric Surgery for Gastric Submucosal Tumors Located Near the Esophagogastric Junction

Background: Laparoscopic local resection of the stomach for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs) is widely accepted by surgeons. For SMTs located near the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), simple laparoscopic wedge resection is rarely performed owing to concerns of causing cardia deformities or stenosis. Single-incision laparoscopic intragastric surgery (sLIGS) has been used to treat SMTs located near the EGJ in carefully selected cases. Methods: We modified sLIGS using a subxiphoid incision. Thirteen consecutive patients with intraluminal or intramural growth type gastric SMTs located near the EGJ underwent sLIGS at our institution from July 2018 to April 2020. Results: Thirteen operations were successfully performed using sLIGS, including eight full-thickness resections and five submucosal resections. There were no conversions to an open procedure and all tumors were confirmed to have negative margins on pathology. The mean operation time was 100 ± 10 minutes (range, 85-160 minutes). The mean blood loss was 50 ± 10 mL (range, 50-100 mL). The mean length of postoperative hospital stay was 7 ± 1.5 days (6-10 days). One patient was found to have oozing of blood confirmed by gastroscopy postoperatively and recovered after stopping antiplatelet therapy. Ten cases were gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), two cases were leiomyoma, and one case was neuroendocrine neoplasm. Of the 10 GISTs, 9 were classified as low risk; 1 showed medium risk and the patient received adjuvant imatinib therapy. There were no tumor recurrences during a mean follow-up of 14 ± 4 months (range, 5-25 months). Conclusions: This modified sLIGS for the treatment of the gastric SMTs located near the EGJ is simple and safe. This can be used as an alternative treatment for gastric SMTs near the EGJ.

Small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding in patient with type 1 Neurofibromatosis: Management and laparoscopic treatment. Case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. It may be asymptomatic; nevertheless, gastrointestinal bleeding is the most frequent symptom, due to mucosal erosion. Its poor lymph node metastatic spread makes GIST often suitable of minimally invasive surgical approach. The importance of this study is to increase the awareness among physicians about this condition in particular scenarios as in our case and to stress the role of laparoscopic surgery.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 74-year-old female patient presented to the emergency department with hematemesis, followed by haematochezia and melena. The patient had a medical history of type 1 Neurofibromatosis (NF1). She underwent, after CT scan, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, and endoscopic haemostasis. Finally, we performed a laparoscopic resection of a mass of the first jejunal loop. The postoperative period was predominantly uneventful. Pathological examination confirmed a low-risk GIST.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Proximal jejunal GIST may cause an upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding. A multidisciplinary team approach is mandatory for the correct management of this disease and its complications (bleeding). GISTs are indicated as the most commonly gastrointestinal NF1 associated tumours. In case of localised and resectable GIST surgical treatment is the mainstay and laparoscopic surgery is a valid alternative.

CONCLUSION

In case of abdominal bleeding mass in a NF1 patient, it is important to keep in mind the well-known association between NF1 and GIST to facilitate the diagnosis and to quickly perform the appropriate treatment. Laparoscopic approach is safe and effective if the oncological radicality is respected.

Laparoscopic vs. open surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumors of esophagogastric junction: A multicenter, retrospective cohort analysis with propensity score weighting

Objective

Laparoscopic resection is increasingly performed for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). However, the laparoscopic approach for GISTs located in the esophagogastric junction (EGJ-GIST) is surgically challenging. This study compares the efficacy of laparoscopic surgery and the open procedure for EGJ-GIST through the propensity score weighting (PSW) method.

Methods

Between April 2006 and April 2018, 1,824 surgical patients were diagnosed with primary gastric GIST at four medical centers in South China. Of these patients, 228 were identified as EGJ-GISTs and retrospectively reviewed clinicopathological characteristics, operative information, and long-term outcomes. PSW was used to create the balanced cohorts.

Results

PSW was carried out in laparoscopic and open-surgery cohorts according to year of surgery, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), tumor size, mitotic rates and recurrence risk. After PSW, 438 patients consisting of 213 laparoscopic (L group) and 225 open surgery (O group) patients were enrolled. After PSW, the following measures in the L group were superior to those in the O group: median operative time [interquartile range (IQR)]: 100.0 (64.5−141.5)vs. 149.0 (104.0−197.5) min, P<0.001; median blood loss (IQR): 30.0 (10.0−50.0)vs. 50.0 (20.0−100.0) mL, P=0.002; median time to liquid intake (IQR): 3.0 (2.0−4.0)vs. 4.0 (3.0−5.0) d, P<0.001; median hospital stay (IQR): 6.0 (4.0−8.0)vs. 7.0 (5.0−12.0) d, P<0.001; and postoperative complications (10.3%vs. 22.7%, P=0.001). The median follow-up was 55 (range, 2−153) months in the entire cohort. No significant differences were detected in either relapse-free survival (RFS) [hazard ratio (HR): 0.372, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.072−1.910, P=0.236) or overall survival (OS) (HR: 0.400, 95% CI: 0.119−1.343, P=0.138) between the two groups.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic surgery for EGJ-GIST is associated with the advantages of shorter operative time, reduced blood loss, shorter time to liquid intake, and shorter length of stay, all without compromising postoperative outcomes and long-term survival.

Association of right breast cancer and ileal gastrointestinal stromal tumor in a patient with type I neurofibromatosis: Case report and review of the literature

•

The association of breast cancer and ileal GIST in Neurofibromatosis type 1 is extremely rare.

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Laparoscopy is associated with better perioperative outcomes and shorter hospital stay.

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Laparoscopic resection of small bowel GIST has shown in some studies to have oncological outcomes comparable to laparotomy.

Introduction

The Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is an autosomal dominant syndrome that affects 1/3000–1/4000 individuals. Patients with this condition are predisposed to different tumors, like neurofibromas, optic nerve gliomas, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and breast cancers.

Presentation of case

A 78-year-old female patient affected by NF1 in May 2018 during follow-up for a carcinoma of the right breast had persistent anemia requiring regular blood transfusions. She presented with NF 1 with disseminated cutaneous neurofibromas, asthma, hypothyroidism, arterial hypertension and uterine prolapse.

She had performed gastroscopy and colonoscopy both negative for neoplastic lesions. She was subjected to chest and abdomen CT which revealed the presence of an ileal lesion of 6.5 × 4 cm suspected of GIST.

The patient underwent laparoscopic ileal resection in 120 min and was discharged on the sixth postoperative day.

Discussion

NF1 is caused by biallelic loss of a tumor suppressor gene. Most GISTs are localized in the stomach and small intestine. Surgery is the first line of treatment for localized disease. The main goal of surgery is complete excision with negative margins. The association between breast cancer and intestinal GIST in NF1 is reported only from two previous studies.

Conclusion

It is a rare case of association of breast cancer and ileal GIST in NF1. Laparoscopic resection of intestinal GIST has shown in some studies to have oncological outcomes comparable to laparotomy. Furthermore, laparoscopy is associated with better perioperative outcomes and shorter hospital stays. Further studies with a higher level of evidence are needed.

Unusual presentations, management and outcomes of gastric stromal tumors: a single-center case series

Background

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are uncommon mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. This study explores the safety of laparoscopy and the long-term oncological outcome in gastroesophageal GIST treatment.

Methods

A prospectively maintained single-institution database was examined. The variables collected were patient demographics and comorbidities, surgical access (laparoscopic/open), type of surgery, length of stay, and complications.

Results

A total of 69 patients underwent GIST resection between January 2011 and June 2018, of whom 56.5% were male; the median age was 68 years (interquartile range 60-76). The majority of patients (78.3%, n=54/69) had a laparoscopic resection. Median length of stay was 6 days in the laparoscopic group and 9 days in the open group (P=0.003). Most patients had wedge excision (n=57/69, 82.6%), while 12 patients (17.4%) required a gastrectomy (one a Merendino type). All patients had an R0 resection and 1 patient (1.4%) had a recurrence, despite having a low-risk grade original tumor with negative margins. Patients in the open group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with a high-risk tumor (50%) compared to the laparoscopic group (3.7%, P=0.001). The mean survival was 92.7 months (95% confidence interval 86.3-99.2). Survival was better in the laparoscopic group (100.4 months) compared with the open group (55.1 months, P<0.001).

Conclusion

Laparoscopic gastric GIST resection is an oncologically safe alternative to open surgery and is associated with a shorter hospital stay with no difference in complication rates or recurrence rates.

Surgical options for submucosal tumors near the esophagogastric junction: does size or location matter?

Background

Submucosal tumors (SMTs) of different etiologies exist from esophagus to rectum. Esophagogastric junction (EGJ) is one of the known difficult locations for tumor resection. Although minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a well-established approach for gastrointestinal surgery, there is no consensus that MIS for resection of SMTs around EGJ is superior to laparotomy. We tried to clarify the factors that determine the surgeons’ choices between these two approaches.

Methods

From January 2002 to June 2016, 909 patients with SMTs underwent resection in our department. Among them, 119 patients (13%) had SMTs around EGJ were enrolled by retrospective review. The clinicopathological features and tumor-related parameters were reviewed and analyzed.

Results

The cohort was stratified into three groups according to the extent of gastrectomy and surgical approaches. The three groups are as following: major gastrectomy (n = 13), minor gastrectomy by laparotomy (n = 51), and minor gastrectomy with MIS (n = 55). The average tumor size was significantly larger in the major gastrectomy group than in the two minor gastrectomy groups; however, there was no difference between the two minor gastrectomy groups (5.33 cm, 4.07 cm, and 3.69 cm, respectively). The minor gastrectomy with MIS required least hospital stay and operation duration also. We re-stratify the two minor gastrectomy groups (n = 106) according to the orientation of SMTs around the EGJ into 4 zones. Most of SMTs located on the greater curvature side of the EGJ were resected with MIS (82% versus 18%), whereas SMTs in the other zones were resected more often by laparotomy (59% versus 41%). There was no surgical mortality within the cohort, while minor gastrectomy with MIS yielded least number of leakages among the three groups.

Conclusions

For SMTs around the EGJ, larger tumors (diameter of more than 5 cm) are more likely to be resected with major gastrectomy. To resect SMTs around the EGJ in a wedge-like (minor gastrectomy) fashion, tumors located other than the greater curvature side were more often resected by laparotomy. However, MIS yielded acceptable safety and surgical outcomes compared to conventional laparotomy for SMTs around the EGJ of the same size.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Surgery for Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: a Propensity Score Matching Analysis

BACKGROUND

Surgery is the first choice for the treatment of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). With the development of new instruments and techniques, the popularity of laparoscopic resection of GISTs has increased rapidly. Previous studies on the advantages of laparoscopic resection over open surgery are generally limited by methodology or data capacity. This study evaluated the efficacy of laparoscopic resection and open surgery in gastric GISTs using the propensity score matching (PSM) method.

METHODS

Between January 2005 and December 2017, 1027 patients were diagnosed with primary GIST at our institution. Among them, 548 patients were enrolled in this study. Standard demographic and clinicopathological data were collected from our database. Selection bias was eliminated using the PSM methods.

RESULTS

After PSM, 256 cases involved in the comparison (128 laparoscopic (LAP) vs. 128 open surgery (OPEN)) were randomly matched (1:1) by age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, year of surgery, tumor location, tumor size, mitotic rate, and treatment with adjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The LAP group was superior to the OPEN group in blood loss (χ² = 6.048, P = 0.049), time to first flatus (49.41 ± 7.56 vs. 71.31 ± 4.87 h, P < 0.001), and hospital stay (10.21 ± 6.05 vs. 12.56 ± 5.43 days, P = 0.001). No significant differences were seen in either the relapse-free survival or overall survival between the LAP and OPEN groups. In tumors located in favorable locations, the LAP group showed less blood loss (P = 0.008) and less multivisceral resection (17.8% vs. 5.5%, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic resection for gastric GISTs is associated with improved surgical outcomes and postoperative courses and comparable oncological outcomes, regardless of favorable or unfavorable tumor location.

Ectopic bronchogenic cyst of the gastric cardia considered to be a gastrointestinal stromal tumor before surgery: a case report

BACKGROUND

We herein report a rare case of an ectopic bronchogenic cyst of the gastric cardia. The initial diagnosis was a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST); however, postoperative pathologic examination confirmed that it was a bronchogenic cyst.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 62-year-old woman visited our hospital for abdominal pain. The diagnosis prior to surgery was a GIST. Computed tomography imaging showed that the mass was located in the gastric cardia on the side of the lesser curvature. During the surgical exploration, it was noted that the tactility of the mass was not consistent with a GIST. Thus, we decided to perform local resection of the mass and part of the gastric wall without wedge resection. The pathological examination revealed a bronchogenic cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

This case suggests that a bronchogenic cyst should be considered as a differential diagnosis of a GIST. It is also a unusual but necessary situation should be considered when explaining the etiology of a bronchogenic cyst.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic submucosal dissection for large gastric stromal tumors

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of gastric stromal tumors is becoming increasingly common. However, there have been few studies analyzing the therapeutic efficacy and safety of this technique on large (≥ 3 cm) gastric stromal tumors (LGSTs). The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of ESD for the removal of LGSTs and to investigate the clinical safety and efficacy of ESD for this indication.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was carried out on 82 patients with LGSTs who underwent an ESD. Data on therapeutic outcomes and follow-up were collected for an analysis of the rates of en block resection and complete resection. A logistic regression model was used to identify potential risk factors for ESD-related complications, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated for qualifying independent risk factors.

RESULTS

En bloc resection was achieved in 81 lesions (98.8%), and complete resection was achieved in 80 lesions (97.6%). The rates of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding were 6.1% and 3.7%, respectively. The accidental perforation rate was 12.2%, the postoperative perforation rate was 3.7%, the intentional perforation rate was 28.0%, and the postoperative infection rate was 12.2%. There was no postoperative mortality. LGSTs originating from the deep muscularis propria (MP) layer (OR = 4.905, 95% CI: 1.362-17.658, P = 0.015), located at the gastric fundus (OR = 4.927, 95% CI:1.308-18.558, P = 0.018) and with an irregular shape (OR = 4.842, 95% CI: 1.242-18.870, P = 0.023) increased the rate of complications. The prediction model that incorporated these factors demonstrated an area under the ROC curve of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.66-0.89). No tumor recurrence or distant metastasis was observed during the follow-up period, which ranged from 6-36 months.

CONCLUSIONS

ESD is a feasible, safe, effective and minimally invasive approach for the resection of LGSTs. Tumors originating from the deep MP layer, located at the fundus and with an irregular shape were identified as risk factors for the development of complications.

Laparoscopic resection is better than endoscopic dissection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor between 2 and 5 cm in size: a case-matched study in a gastrointestinal center

BACKGROUND

The feasibility of endoscopic dissection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (gGIST) between 2 and 5 cm in size has been demonstrated. However, its impact on short-term and long-term outcomes, compared with laparoscopic resection, is unknown. The purpose of this study was to compare short-term and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic resection and endoscopic dissection for 2-5-cm gGIST.

METHODS

A case-matched study was performed using the propensity score. To overcome selection bias, we performed a 1:1 match using six covariates, including age, sex, BMI, ASA score, tumor size, and tumor location. Short-term and long-term outcomes between laparoscopic resection and endoscopic dissection were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 210 patients with 2-5-cm gGIST were enrolled between 2006 and 2017 in our gastrointestinal center. According to the intention-to-treat approach, 165 patients underwent laparoscopic resection, and 45 patients underwent endoscopic dissection. After the propensity score, 45 pairs were balanced and analyzed. There was no significant difference in the baseline characteristics between the laparoscopic and endoscopic groups after matching. The rate of complications was significantly higher in the endoscopic group compared with the laparoscopic group (P < 0.001). Perforations occurred in 16 patients in the endoscopic group (16/45, 35.6%). The postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in the endoscopic group compared with the laparoscopic group (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups in disease-free survival or overall survival.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic resection is better than endoscopic dissection for 2-5-cm gGIST because of the lower complication rate and shorter hospital stay.

Endoscopic full thickness resection versus submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection for removal of submucosal tumors: a review article

Submucosal tumors (SMT) are protuberant lesions with intact mucosa that have a wide differential. These lesions may be removed by standard polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR), endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), or surgically. However, in lesions that arise from the muscularis propria, full thickness resection is recommended. This can be completed using either endoscopic full thickness resection (EFTR) or submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER). EFTR can be accomplished by completing a full thickness resection followed by defect closure or by securing gastrointestinal wall patency before resection. STER is an option that first creates a mucosal dissection proximal to the lesion to allow a submucosal tunnel to be created. Using this tunnel, the lesion may be resected. When comparing STER to EFTR, there was no significant difference when evaluating tumor size, operation time, rate of complications, or en bloc resection rate. However, suture time, amount of clips used, and overall hospital stay were decreased in STER. With these differences, EFTR may be more efficacious in certain parts of the gastrointestinal tract where a submucosal tunnel is harder to accomplish.

Laparoscopic versus open wedge resection for gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the stomach: a meta-analysis

Introduction

With the rapid development of minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic (LAP) wedge resection has become the first-choice treatment for primary gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) of the stomach.

Aim

To investigate the safety and feasibility of LAP wedge resection and the choice of surgical treatment for GISTs of the stomach through a meta-analysis and systematic review.

Material and methods

The literature was widely searched for comparative studies on open (OPEN) and LAP wedge resection for GISTs published before April 2017. The articles were selected after quality assessment.

Results

Ten reports met the inclusion criteria, with a total sample size of 485 cases. The operation time was similar between the 2 groups (weighted mean difference (WMD): 8.67 min, 95% confidence interval (CI): –8.60 to 25.94, p = 0.33). However, LAP resulted in less blood loss (WMD –32.20 ml, 95% CI: –56.15 to –8.26, p < 0.01), earlier time to flatus (WMD –1.48 days, 95% CI: –1.90 to –1.06, p < 0.01) and to an oral diet (WMD –1.50 days, 95% CI: –2.25 to –0.47, p < 0.01), shorter hospital stay (WMD –2.03 days, 95% CI: –2.68 to –1.38, p < 0.01), and a decreased overall complication rate (relative risk: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.25–0.89, p = 0.01) compared with OPEN. Moreover, long-term follow-up findings indicated no obvious difference between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

The use of LAP wedge resection for suitable cases is safe and feasible because it causes less blood loss and fewer overall complications and enables faster recovery.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors of the Stomach and Esophagus

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) arise anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly as a result of c-kit or PDGFRA proto-oncogene mutations. Surgical resection is an important component of treatment. However, molecular profiling of GISTs has provided many insights into adjuvant and neoadjuvant therapy options. Imatinib, the most frequently studied medical therapy, has been shown in numerous studies to provide benefit to patients in both the neoadjuvant and adjuvant setting. Interval imaging is an important component of the treatment of GISTs and national surveillance recommendations should be followed.

Laparoscopic Surgery for Large Gastric Submucosal Tumors

BACKGROUND

In general, laparoscopic resection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) >5 cm is not recommended. However, there is a lack of evidence to support this recommendation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study included 108 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for gastric GISTs. Of the 108 patients, 23 had GISTs>5 cm. The aim of this study is to evaluate the oncological safety of laparoscopic surgery for large gastric GISTs. In addition, we performed a rapid systematic review of laparoscopic surgery for large gastric GISTs.

RESULTS

In our cases, all patients were performed R0 resection without capsular rupture and surgical margins were negative on pathologic examination. In all studies, en bloc resection was achieved without capsular rupture in all patients. The average positive surgical margins rate was 1.6% in total reports.

CONCLUSIONS

The laparoscopic approach for large gastric GISTs>5 cm has been proposed as safe when performed by experienced surgeons.

Current clinical management of gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common malignant subepithelial lesions (SELs) of the gastrointestinal tract. They originate from the interstitial cells of Cajal located within the muscle layer and are characterized by over-expression of the tyrosine kinase receptor KIT. Pathologically, diagnosis of a GIST relies on morphology and immunohistochemistry [KIT and/or discovered on gastrointestinal stromal tumor 1 (DOG1) is generally positive]. The prognosis of this disease is associated with the tumor size and mitotic index. The standard treatment of a GIST without metastasis is surgical resection. A GIST with metastasis is usually only treated by tyrosine kinase inhibitors without radical cure; thus, early diagnosis is the only way to improve its prognosis. However, a GIST is usually detected as a SEL during endoscopy, and many benign and malignant conditions may manifest as SELs. Conventional endoscopic biopsy is difficult for tumors without ulceration. Most SELs have therefore been managed without a histological diagnosis. However, a favorable prognosis of a GIST is associated with early histological diagnosis and R0 resection. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and EUS-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) are critical for an accurate diagnosis of SELs. EUS-FNA is safe and effective in enabling an early histological diagnosis and adequate treatment. This review outlines the current evidence for the diagnosis and management of GISTs, with an emphasis on early management of small SELs.

Surgical Management of Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumours: Comparison of Outcomes for Local and Radical Resection

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) most commonly originate from the stomach. Their treatment is dependent on size and whether they are symptomatic. Curative treatment requires surgery, which may be preceded by neoadjuvant imatinib if it is felt that this will aid in achieving clear (R0) resection margins. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes from patients that underwent a "local" organ-preserving operation, with those that required a more radical resection, and the influences on selecting a more radical resection. A retrospective review of patients undergoing surgery for symptomatic gastric GISTs from a single institution over 9 years was carried out. Patients were divided into three cohorts dependent on whether they had a "local" resection, "anatomical" resection, or "extended" resection. 71 patients were included. Overall, 5-year survival was 92%. Operating time, blood loss, and length of stay were significantly lower in the group undergoing local resection (p < 0.05). Tumour size was also smaller in the local group (median 4 cm versus 5 cm p < 0.05). Tumour location also influenced the type of surgery performed, with tumours at the cardia, gastroesophageal junction, and antrum all having "anatomical" resections. Lymphadenectomy did not appear to impact on outcomes. These findings indicate that local excision, where possible, does not impair oncological outcomes.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Resection of Small Bowel Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic resection (LAP) for small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is not as common as for stomach. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of LAP for small bowel GISTs with systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

The Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed databases before December 2016 were comprehensively searched to retrieve comparative trials of LAP and conventional open resection (OPEN) for GISTs of small bowel with a relevance of review object. These researches reported intraoperative and postoperative clinical course (operation time, blood loss, time to first flatus and oral intake, hospital stay, morbidity, and mortality), oncologic outcomes, and long-term survival status.

RESULTS

Six studies involving 391 patients were identified. Compared to OPEN, LAP had associated with a shorter operation time (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -27.97 min, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -49.40--6.54, P < 0.01); less intraoperative blood loss (WMD = -0.72 ml; 95% CI: -1.30--0.13, P = 0.02); earlier time to flatus (WMD = -0.83 day; 95% CI: -1.44--0.22, P < 0.01); earlier time to restart oral intake (WMD = -1.95 days; 95% CI: -3.31--0.60, P < 0.01); shorter hospital stay (WMD = -3.00 days; 95% CI: -4.87--1.13, P < 0.01); and a decrease in overall complications (risk ratio = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.33-0.97, P = 0.04). In addition, the tumor recurrence and long-term survival rate showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

LAP for small bowel GISTs is a safe and feasible procedure with shorter operation time, less blood loss, less overall complications, and quicker recovery. Besides, tumor recurrence and the long-term survival rate are similar to open approach. Because of the limitations of this study, methodologically high-quality studies are needed for certain appraisal.

Asian consensus guidelines for gastrointestinal stromal tumor: what is the same and what is different from global guidelines

There are some disparities between the clinical practice and profiles of cancer in Asia and those in Europe & North America. In Asia, surgical oncologists still have a major role in the multidisciplinary therapy of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), whereas medical oncologists hold this status in the West. Although the incidence of clinical GIST is considered similar between the two areas, small gastric GISTs are more frequently treated by surgery in East Asia compared with Europe & North America. The diagnosis and treatment of small submucosal tumors (SMTs), including GIST, is important in Asian clinical practice guidelines for GIST. Most items of Asian and Western GIST guidelines are very similar. There are slight differences between the two guidelines in the degree of recommendation, which may come from disparities of clinical practice and available medicines. Importantly, most clinical evidence in the GIST guidelines has been established by clinical trials conducted in Western countries, and the number of clinical trials is still limited in Asia, suggesting that Asian GIST patients may have limited access to investigational drugs after standard therapy. Finally, both Asian and Western GIST guidelines are well-harmonized in some parts, and their contents may reflect the medical circumstances of each region.

Safety and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection of large (≥3 cm) subepithelial tumors located in the cardia

BACKGROUND

Upper gastrointestinal subepithelial tumors (SETs) may harbor potential malignancy. Although it is well recognized that large SETs should be resected, the treatment strategy remains controversial. Compared to surgical resection, endoscopic resection has many advantages such as less invasive, shorter hospital stay, lower costs, and better quality of life. However, Endoscopic resection of large SETs in the cardia is challenging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in the treatment of such SETs.

METHODS

A total of 41 patients with large SETs (≥3 cm in diameter) located in the cardia were involved in the study. All patients underwent ESD. Data on therapeutic outcomes and follow-up were collected, for analysis of risk factors of complication rates.

RESULTS

The average tumor size was 4.7 ± 1.7 cm. The average procedure time was 69.3 ± 32.7 min and the average postoperative hospital stay was 3.5 ± 1.1 days. A total of 41 tumors were removed successfully, in which 35 were leiomyomas, three were gastrointestinal stromal tumors, two were lipomas, and one was gastritis cystica profunda. The en bloc resection rate was 90.2%, and was significantly higher for tumors with a round or oval shape (100%) than for those with an irregular shape (75.0%) (P < 0.05). Five patients experienced complications (12.2%), all of which were managed conservatively. The complication rates were significantly higher in patients with a tumor originating from the deep muscularis propria layer and demonstrating a trans-cardia growth pattern. No residual or tumor recurrence was observed and no stricture occurred during the follow-up period (average, 26.7 ± 18.4 months).

CONCLUSIONS

ESD is safe and effective to curatively remove most large SETs in the cardia, and may serve as an accurate histopathology measurement to direct future therapy.

Meta-analysis comparing laparoscopic versus open resection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors larger than 5 cm

BACKGROUND

Data on the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic versus open resection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) larger than 5 cm are limited. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to compared laparoscopic and open resection for gastric GISTs larger than 5 cm.

METHODS

We perform a literature search on PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase. Review Manage version 5.1 (RevMan 5.1) was used for data analysis. The GRADE profiler software (version 3.6) was used to estimate the level of evidence.

RESULTS

A total of 6 observational studies and one unpublished retrospective cohort study met the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis: 203 patients in LAP and 214 patients in OPEN group. The pooled result revealed that laparoscopic resection was associated with a same operative time (WMD = -0.87 min; 95% CI: -47.50 to 47.75; P = 0.97), intraoperative blood loss (WMD = -34.38 ml; 95% CI: -79.60 to 10.84; P = 0.14), overall complications (RR = 0.65; 95% CI: 0.38 to 1.12; P = 0.12), better 5-year disease-free survival (HR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.91; P = 0.03) and overall survival (HR = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.40; P = 0.002) compared with open resection.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic resection is a technically and oncologically safe and feasible approach for large-sized gastric GISTs (≥ 5 cm) compared to open resection.

[Clinical and morphological characteristics of gastrointestinal stromal tumors]

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Despite this, GISTS comprise about 2% in the structure of digestive tract cancers. They are usually localized in the stomach; however, they can be found in the small intestine and more rarely in the colon and esophagus. Although approximately 70% of the GISTs consist predominantly of spindle cells; the epithelioid cell tumors represent 20% of cases; there are also mixed variants. This variability in the morphological structure of GISTs complicates their diagnosis.

Laparoscopic resection for gastrointestinal stromal tumors in esophagogastric junction (EGJ): how to protect the EGJ

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) is now widely performed. However, laparoscopic resection of GIST in the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) is technically difficult and rarely reported. Herein, we introduce four fashions of laparoscopic resection for EGJ-GIST.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 42 consecutive patients with EGJ-GIST who underwent attempted laparoscopic surgery was conducted. EGJ-GIST was defined as GIST with an upper border of less than 5 cm from the esophagogastric line. Four fashions of laparoscopic resection were performed: fashion A, laparoscopic wedge resection using linear stapler; fashion B, laparoscopic complete resection by opening the stomach wall and closing with suture or linear stapler; fashion C, laparoscopic mucosa-preserving resection; and fashion D, laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with pyloroplasty and gastric plication. Clinicopathologic characteristics, operative course, and short-term and long-term outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed successfully without operative complications. In 24 of 42 (57.1%) patients, tumors were located in the fundus or greater curvature. Out of those, 70.8% (17/24) received fashion A and 29.2% (7/24) received fashion B. Tumors in 16 of 42 (38.1%) patients were located in the lesser curvature. Of those, 81.3% (13/16) underwent fashion B and 18.7% (3/16) underwent fashion D. One tumor in the anterior stomach wall and one in the posterior wall received fashion C. The mean operative time was 103.8 ± 22.1 min and the mean estimated blood loss was 22.4 ± 13.5 ml. The mean time to flatus was 40.3 ± 12.9 h and the time to fluid intake was 43.2 ± 14.3 h. The mean hospital stay was 4.8 ± 2.1 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic surgery for EGJ-GIST is safe and feasible. The selection of various laparoscopic resection fashions should be chosen based on tumor location and the surgeon's experience.

[Clinical and pathological features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) in a single institution: A descriptive study and review of the literature]

INTRODUCTION

This study was aimed to assess the main clinical, pathological and therapeutic characteristics of a cohort of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST).

METHODS

Observational study including 66 patients diagnosed with GIST admitted to our hospital between 2002 and 2015. Parameters related to medical history, clinical manifestations, medical and surgical treatment, histopathology, and morbi-mortality were studied. A review of the literature was included to correlate with the results.

RESULTS

The most frequent location of GIST in our patients was the stomach (65.2%), in which the gastric fondo was the predominant region. The most common clinical manifestation was gastrointestinal hemorrhage (45.5%), followed by incidental finding after imaging or invasive procedures (33.3%). 58 patients underwent surgery (90.6%), 15.5% were urgent. A total of 69% of the GISTs had a size between 2 and 10cm. The one-year mortality was 7.9%, all cases related to local or remote extension, or surgical complications.

CONCLUSION

There is a large clinical variability among GIST cases. The first choice of treatment is surgery, which is feasible in most cases and should be as conservative as possible. The prognosis varies depending on the size and proliferation index, thus close follow-up should be performed. No tumor marker is clearly associated with a poor prognosis. New molecular biology studies are needed in order to find therapeutic targets.

Comparison of short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic vs open resection for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors

AIM

To compare the short- and long-term outcomes of laparoscopic (LR) vs open resection (OR) for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (gGISTs).

METHODS

In total, 301 consecutive patients undergoing LR or OR for pathologically confirmed gGISTs from 2005 to 2014 were enrolled in this retrospective study. After exclusion of 77 patients, 224 eligible patients were enrolled (122 undergoing LR and 102 undergoing OR). The demographic, clinicopathologic, and survival data of all patients were collected. The intraoperative, postoperative, and long-term oncologic outcomes were compared between the LR and OR groups following the propensity score matching to balance the measured covariates between the two groups.

RESULTS

After 1:1 propensity score matching for the set of covariates including age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiology score, tumor location, tumor size, surgical procedures, mitotic count, and risk stratification, 80 patients in each group were included in the final analysis. The baseline parameters of the two groups were comparable after matching. The LR group was significantly superior to the OR group with respect to the operative time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative first flatus, time to oral intake, and postoperative hospital stay (P < 0.05). No differences in perioperative blood transfusion or the incidence of postoperative complications were observed between the two groups (P > 0.05). No significant difference was found in postoperative adjuvant therapy (P = 0.587). The mean follow-up time was 35.30 ± 26.02 (range, 4-102) mo in the LR group and 40.99 ± 25.07 (range, 4-122) mo in the OR group with no significant difference (P = 0.161). Survival analysis showed no significant difference in the disease-free survival time or overall survival time between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic surgery for gGISTs is superior to open surgery with respect to intraoperative parameters and postoperative outcomes without compromising long-term oncological outcomes.

Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Gastric Resection for Primary Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors >5 cm: A Size-Matched and Location-Matched Comparison

This study compared robotic (RR) and laparoscopic resection (LR) for primary gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) of the stomach >5 cm. Twelve consecutive patients who underwent RR from 2012 to 2015 were matched for tumor size and location with 24 patients who underwent LR from 2000 to 2012. The median tumor size was 7.1 cm (range, 5.5 to 11.5). GISTs were resected by wedge resection (91.7%) or distal gastrectomy. The median RR operative time was longer than that of LR (162.5 vs. 130 min, respectively; P=0.004). Only 1 LR patient required conversion. The time to flatus and hospital stay were similar between groups. Overall, 3 patients developed minor postoperative complications that were medically treated. Mortality was nil. All resections were R0. No difference was observed in the incidence of recurrence. RR was significantly more expensive (+21.6%) than LR. RR appears to be safe and feasible for GISTs>5 cm, but is associated with longer operative times and greater costs.

Laparoscopic management of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors: A retrospective 10-year single-center experience

AIM

To determine the feasibility, safety, and oncological outcome of laparoscopic resection of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) based on favorable or unfavorable location.

METHODS

Our hospital database included 207 patients who underwent laparoscopic removal of gastric GISTs from January 2004 to September 2015. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, surgery, histopathology, postoperative course, and oncological outcomes were reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

Gastric GIST in favorable locations was present in 81/207 (39.1%) cases, and in unfavorable locations in 126/207 (60.9%) cases. Overall mean tumor size was 3.28 ± 1.82 cm. No conversions occurred, and complete R0 resection was achieved in 207 (100%) cases. There were three incidences of iatrogenic tumor rupture. The feasibility and safety of laparoscopic surgery were comparable in both groups with no statistical difference between unfavorable and favorable location groups, respectively: for operative time: 83.86 ± 44.41 vs 80.77 ± 36.46 min, P = 0.627; conversion rate: 0% vs 0%; estimated blood loss: 27.74 ± 45.2 vs 29.59 ± 41.18 mL, P = 0.780; tumor rupture during surgery: 0.90% vs 2.82%, P = 0.322; or postoperative complications: 3.74% vs 7.04%, P = 0.325. The follow-up period recurrence rate was 1.89% with no significant differences between the two groups (3.03% vs 0%, P = 0.447). Overall 5-year survival rate was 98.76% and survival rates were similar between the two groups: 98.99% vs 98.39%, P = 0.623 (unfavorable vs favorable, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The laparoscopic approach for gastric GISTs is safe and feasible with well-accepted oncological surgical outcomes. Strategies for laparoscopic resection should be selected according to the location and size of the tumor. Laparoscopic treatment of gastric GISTs in unfavorable locations should not be restricted in gastrointestinal centers.

Short-term outcomes of laparoscopic local resection for gastric submucosal tumors: a single-center experience of 266 patients

Background

Laparoscopic resections for submucosal tumors (SMTs) of the stomach have been developed rapidly over the past decade. Several types of laparoscopic methods for gastric SMTs have been created. We assessed the short-term outcomes of two commonly used types of laparoscopic local resection (LLR) for gastric SMTs and reported our findings.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological results of 266 patients with gastric SMTs whom underwent LLR between January 2006 and September 2016. 228 of these underwent laparoscopic exogastric wedge resection (LEWR), the remaining 38 patients with the tumors near the esophagogastric junction (EGJ) or antrum underwent laparoscopic transgastric resection (LTR).

Results

All the patients underwent laparoscopic resections successfully. The mean operation times of LEWR and LTR were 90.2 ± 37.2 min and 101.7 ± 38.5 min respectively. The postoperative length of hospital stays for LEWR and LTR were 5.1 ± 2.1 days and 5.3 ± 1.7 days respectively. There was a low complication rate (4.4%) and zero mortality in our series.

Conclusion

ELWR is technically feasible therapy of gastric SMTs. LTR is secure and effective for gastric intraluminal SMTs located near the EGJ or antrum.

Can laparoscopic surgery be applied in gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors located in unfavorable sites?: A study based on the NCCN guidelines

This article investigated the feasibility of laparoscopic surgery in unfavorable site gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).We identified 214 patients who underwent primary gastric GIST resection at our institution (January 2006-December 2014) from a prospectively collected database. These patients were divided into a Favorable group (140 cases) and an Unfavorable group (74 cases) according to the 2014 version of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Guidelines (NCCN guidelines).The wedge resection rate of the Favorable group was higher than that of the Unfavorable group, and most procedures were performed laparoscopically (P < 0.05). In addition, there were no differences in the other clinicopathological features between these groups (P > 0.05). The postoperative stay of the Unfavorable group was longer than that of the Favorable group (P = 0.02). Laparoscopic surgery in both groups resulted in a shorter operative time, lower blood loss, faster time to first flatus, faster time to first fluid diet, and shorter postoperative stay than open surgery (P < 0.05). Although the difference was not significant (P = 0.09), the postoperative complication incidence of the Favorable group was less than that of the Unfavorable group (10% vs 17.6%). Furthermore, in the Unfavorable group, the incidence of postoperative complications from laparoscopic surgery was significantly lower than that of open surgery (P = 0.001). There were no differences in the 5-year overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of these groups (P > 0.05). Furthermore, in the Unfavorable group, the 5-year OS and RFS were similar for both laparoscopic and open procedures. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that imatinib (IM) treatment was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis.Laparoscopic operation for gastric GISTs located in unfavorable sites can yield similar long-term outcomes compared with an open operation. However, laparoscopic surgery has the obvious advantage of being minimally invasive, and the incidence of postoperative complications was low. Laparoscopic surgery is thus an option for the treatment of localized gastric GISTs.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) presenting as a strangulated inguinal hernia with small bowel obstruction

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) can arise everywhere along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Their presentation in unusual locations should always be taken into account. A 74-year-old man referred to the emergency department for small bowel obstruction caused by an incarcerated inguinal hernia. A CT scan showed a mesenchymal tumour originating from the herniated bowel loop and a mass in the ascending colon. Laparoscopic resection of the mass and laparoscopic right hemicolectomy were performed. The histology showed a ruptured GIST arising from the herniated small bowel and a high-grade dysplasia villous adenoma of the right colon. GISTs can present with symptoms spanning from vague abdominal discomfort to surgical urgencies. Strangulated hernia is an extremely rare presentation, with only two cases described in the literature. A safe surgical approach was obtained with laparoscopy, maintaining surgical radicality. The ileal localisation and the pseudocapsule rupture were the main risk factors on prognostic stratification.

Application of laparoscopy, endoscopy and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery in gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) constitute the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract, among which 60%-70% are located in the stomach. All GISTs have malignant potential, varying from small lesions to aggressive sarcomas. Surgical resection with negative margins remains the best treatment for GISTs. Lymphadenectomy is not necessary because GISTs rarely metastasize to lymph nodes. Because of these biological behavior characteristics, the advantages of minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic surgery and endoscopic surgery can be fully reflected in the surgical management of GISTs. The advent of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery has broadened the scope and enhanced the safety of minimally invasive surgical treatment of GISTs. In this paper we will discuss the application of laparoscopy, endoscopy and laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery in the treatment of GISTs.