Factors associated with endoscopic full-thickness resection of gastric submucosal tumors

Endoscopic resection for gastric submucosal tumors: A single-center experience in Japan

Objectives

Endoscopic resection (ER) for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs) has gained prominence in recent years, with studies emerging from various countries. However, there is a paucity of reports from Japan. We aimed to elucidate the efficacy and safety of ER for gastric SMT in Japan.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we investigated the outcomes of consecutive patients who underwent ER for gastric SMT from January 2017 to May 2023. The outcome variables assessed included the complete resection rate, procedure time, closure-related outcomes, and the incidence of adverse events.

Results

A total of 13 patients were included in the analysis. The median procedure time was 163 (55-283) min. Complete full-thickness resection was performed in seven cases, while in four cases, the serosa remained, and in two cases, the outer layer of the muscularis propria remained. In two cases where the SMT was located on the anterior side, conversion to laparoscopic surgery became necessary, resulting in a procedural success rate of 84.6% (11/13). Excluding these two cases, endoscopic closure of the defect was successfully accomplished in the remaining 11 cases. R0 resection was achieved in 12 out of 13 cases (92.3%). Although one patient had peritonitis, which was successfully treated conservatively, no other treatment-related adverse events were encountered.

Conclusions

Although ER for SMT on the anterior side may be challenging, our experience revealed that ER is a safe and efficacious approach for gastric SMT.

Endoscopic ultrasound-based application system for predicting endoscopic resection-related outcomes and diagnosing subepithelial lesions: Multicenter prospective study

OBJECTIVES

Subepithelial lesions (SELs) are associated with various endoscopic resection (ER) outcomes and diagnostic challenges. We aimed to establish a tool for predicting ER-related outcomes and diagnosing SELs and to investigate the predictive value of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).

METHODS

Phase 1 (system development) was performed in a retrospective cohort (n = 837) who underwent EUS before ER for SELs at eight hospitals. Prediction models for five key outcomes were developed using logistic regression. Models with satisfactory internal validation performance were included in a mobile application system, SEL endoscopic resection predictor (SELERP). In Phase 2, the models were externally validated in a prospective cohort of 200 patients.

RESULTS

An SELERP was developed using EUS characteristics, which included 10 models for five key outcomes: post-ER ulcer management, short procedure time, long hospital stay, high medication costs, and diagnosis of SELs. In Phase 1, 10 models were derived and validated (C-statistics, 0.67-0.99; calibration-in-the-large, -0.14-0.10; calibration slopes, 0.92-1.08). In Phase 2, the derived risk prediction models showed convincing discrimination (C-statistics, 0.64-0.73) and calibration (calibration-in-the-large, -0.02-0.05; calibration slopes, 1.01-1.09) in the prospective cohort. The sensitivities and specificities of the five diagnostic models were 68.3-95.7% and 64.1-83.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We developed and prospectively validated an application system for the prediction of ER outcomes and diagnosis of SELs, which could aid clinical decision-making and facilitate patient-physician consultation. EUS features significantly contributed to the prediction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, http://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2000040118).

Assessment of a Real-world Learning Curve for the Endoscopic Resection of Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection (ER) is a proven treatment for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (gGISTs). We aimed to assess the learning curve (LC) associated with ER for gGISTs and identify determinants.

METHODS

We conducted an analysis of 289 patients who underwent the ER of gGISTs by an experienced endoscopist. To characterize the LC, we employed cumulative sum analysis of the duration of surgery. The participants were divided into an early phase (cases 1-50) and a later phase (case 51-289), which were compared. Furthermore, we identified risk factors for the conversion from endoscopic to laparoscopic resection (LR).

RESULTS

The durations of surgery and hospitalization were shorter, and there were fewer complications and fasting days in the later phase. The conversion rates to LR were 6.0% and 2.5% in the early and later phases, respectively. The tumor diameter (≥3.0 cm) and invasion beyond the muscularis propria were significant risk factors for conversion to LR (odds ratio 17.92, 95% confidence interval 2.66-120.87; and 58.03, 6.40-525.84; respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The LC for ER of gGISTs lasts for approximately 50 cases. In addition, tumors ≥3.0 cm in diameter and those that invade beyond the muscularis propria are more likely to require conversion to LR.

Current Status of Endoscopic Full-Thickness Resection for Gastric Subepithelial Tumors: A Literature Review Over Two Decades

BACKGROUND

With the development of endoscopic technology and devices, endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) has been challengingly introduced for gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs). The resection and closure strategies are under investigation. This systematic review was performed to assess the current status and limitations of EFTR for gastric SETs.

SUMMARY

MEDLINE was searched using the keywords "endoscopic full-thickness resection" or "gastric endoscopic full-thickness closure" AND "gastric" or "stomach" from January 2001 to July 2022. The outcome variables were the complete resection rate, major adverse event (AE) rate including delayed bleeding and delayed perforation, and closure-associated outcomes. Among 288 studies, 27 eligible studies involving 1,234 patients were included in this review. The complete resection rate was 99.7% (1,231/1,234). The major AE rate was 1.13% (14/1,234), with delayed bleeding in two (0.16%) patients, delayed perforation in one (0.08%), panperitonitis or abdominal abscess in three (0.24%), and other AEs in eight (0.64%). Surgical interventions were required intraoperatively or postoperatively in 7 patients (0.56%). Three patients underwent intraoperative conversion to surgery, due to intraoperative massive bleeding, technical difficulty of closure, and retrieval of falling tumor in the peritoneal cavity. Postoperative surgical rescues for AEs were required in four (0.32%). Subgroup analysis of AE outcomes showed no significant differences among closure techniques consisting of endoclips, purse-string suturing, and over-the-scope clips.

KEY MESSAGES

This systematic review demonstrated acceptable outcomes of EFTR and closure for gastric SETs, indicating that EFTR is a promising forthcoming procedure.

Development and validation of a preoperative difficulty scoring system for endoscopic resection of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor: a multi-center study

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic resection (ER) is a promising technique for resecting gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (gGISTs); however, ER is technically challenging. This study aimed to develop and validate a difficulty scoring system (DSS) to determine the difficulty for ER of a gGIST.

METHODS

This retrospective study enrolled 555 patients with gGISTs in multi-centers from December 2010 to December 2022. Data on patients, lesions, and outcomes of ER were collected and analyzed. A difficult case was defined as an operative time ≥ 90 min, or the occurrence of severe intraoperative bleeding, or conversion to laparoscopic resection. The DSS was developed in the training cohort (TC) and validated in the internal validation cohort (IVC) and external validation cohort (EVC).

RESULTS

The difficulty occurred in 97 cases (17.5%). The DSS comprised the following: tumor size ≥ 3.0 cm (3 points) or 2.0-3.0 cm (1 point); location in the upper third of the stomach (2 points); invasion depth beyond the muscularis propria (2 points); lack of experience (1 point). The area under the curve (AUC) of DSS in IVC and EVC was 0.838 and 0.864, respectively, and the negative predictive value (NPV) was 0.923 and 0.972, respectively. The proportions of difficult operation in easy (score 0-3), intermediate (score 4-5), and difficult (score 6-8) categories were 6.5%, 29.4%, and 88.2% in the TC, 7.7%, 45.8%, and 85.7% in the IVC, and 7.0%, 29.4%, and 85.7% in the EVC, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and validated a preoperative DSS for ER of gGISTs based on tumor size, location, invasion depth, and endoscopists' experience. This DSS can be used to grade the technical difficulty before surgery.

Pure endoscopic resection versus laparoscopic assisted procedure for upper gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Perspective from a surgical endoscopist

Management of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) has evolved significantly over the past two decades. For GIST size smaller than 5 cm, laparoscopic resection has become the current standard. To avoid postoperative gastric deformity and preserve gastric function, laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) was developed and various modifications have been reported and utilized successfully. Pure endoscopic resection techniques have also been reported at a similar period of time, which further push the boundary of incisionless surgery in managing these lesions. Both tunneling and nontunneling exposed type endoscopic full thickness resection are well described procedures for resection of small UGI GIST. In this review, a summary of these procedures is provided, and the pros and cons of each technique from the perspective of a surgical endoscopist are discussed in detail. LECS and endoscopic resection are complementary to each other. The choice of technique should be tailored to the location, morphology, and size of the target lesions, taking into account the experience of the laparoscopic surgeons and endoscopists.

Endoscopic Full Thickness Resection: A Systematic Review

Background Endoscopic full thickness resection (EFTR) is an emerging therapeutic option for resecting subepithelial lesions (SELs) and epithelial neoplasms. We aimed to systematically review the techniques, applications, outcomes, and complications of EFTR.

Methods A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed. All relevant original research articles involving EFTR were included for the review along with case report/series describing novel/rare techniques from 2001 to February 2022.

Results After screening 7,739 citations, finally 141 references were included. Non-exposed EFTR has lower probability of peritoneal contamination or tumor seeding compared with exposed EFTR. Among exposed EFTR, tunneled variety is associated with lower risk of peritoneal seeding or contamination compared with non-tunneled approach. Closure techniques involve though the scope (TTS) clips, loop and clips, over the scope clips (OTSC), full thickness resection device (FTRD), and endoscopic suturing/plicating/stapling devices. The indications of EFTR range from esophagus to rectum and include SELs arising from muscularis propria (MP), non-lifting adenoma, recurrent adenoma, and even early gastric cancer (EGC) or superficial colorectal carcinoma. Other indications include difficult locations (involving appendicular orifice or diverticulum) and full thickness biopsy for motility disorders. The main limitation of FTRD is feasibility in smaller lesions (<20–25 mm), which can be circumvented by hybrid EFTR techniques. Oncologic resection with lymphadencetomy for superficial GI malignancy can be accomplished by hybrid natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) combining EFTR and NOTES. Bleeding, perforation, appendicitis, enterocolonic fistula, FTRD malfunction, peritoneal tumor seeding, and contamination are among various adverse events. Post OTSC artifacts need to be differentiated from recurrent/residual lesions to avoid re-FTRD/surgery.

Conclusion EFTR is safe and effective therapeutic option for SELs, recurrent and non-lifting adenomas, tumors in difficult locations and selected cases of superficial GI carcinoma.

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection without laparoscopic assistance for gastric submucosal tumors: A systematic review and pooled analysis

BACKGROUND

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (Eo-EFTR) is emerging as a promising minimally invasive alternative to surgery for the treatment of deep gastric submucosal tumors (G-SMTs). However, literature concerning this subject is heterogeneous and data mostly come from relatively small retrospective studies.

AIMS

We aimed to perform a pooled analysis of published data with regard to gastric Eo-EFTR, providing a pooled estimate of technical and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO. MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched for studies published from 1998 to 2020. The primary outcomes were complete resection and surgical conversion rates. The secondary outcomes were overall and selected major adverse events rates. The Forest plots on primary and secondary endpoints were produced based on fixed and random effect models.

RESULTS

Nineteen studies including 952 Eo-EFTR-treated G-SMTs were included. The pooled estimate of the complete resection rate and surgical conversion rates was 99.3% and 0.09%, respectively. The pooled estimate of overall major adverse events, delayed bleeding, delayed perforation and peritonitis, abdominal abscess and/or abdominal infection was 0.29%, 0.14%, 0.14%, and 0.12%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Gastric Eo-EFTR has a high rate of complete resection with a low surgical conversion rate. It appears to be relatively safe and might represent a non-inferior minimally invasive alternative to surgery in selected cases.

Advances in endoscopic resection: a review of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic full thickness resection (EFTR) and submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER)

Subepithelial lesions are often detected incidentally in patients undergoing an endoscopy. They are common tumors of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract which can originate from different layers of the GI tract wall. These lesions can be further classified based on GI layer of origin and unique histochemical staining. While most are benign and asymptomatic, some of these lesions have malignant potential with distant metastases. However, current diagnostic modalities including endoscopy with biopsy or endoscopic ultrasound with fine needle aspiration are not always reliable. In addition, management of these lesions has historically involved surgical resection via open or laparoscopic approaches. In recent years, with advancement in endoscopic techniques and improvement in endoscopists' skills, less invasive procedures such as endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), endoscopic full thickness resection (EFTR) and submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER) have been developed and now are being used by endoscopists worldwide. Upon reviewing the literature, multiple studies have shown the advantages of these endoscopic techniques when compared with surgical treatment. As a result, there has been a dramatic shift towards minimally invasive endoscopic procedures for the management of these subepithelial lesions. In this review article, we will discuss these endoscopic resection techniques in detail, their safety and efficacy, as well as comparison studies to other therapeutic modalities.

Effects of Endoscopic Submucosal Excavation With Non-Submucosal Injection on Stromal Tumors in Stomach

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE) is commonly used to treat gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), especially for tumor sizes within 2 cm; compared with the conventical ESE, the efficacy and safety of the no-submucosal injection (NSI) ESE remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of NSI-ESE for gastric stromal tumors.

Methods

ESE was performed in 102 patients at our hospital between January 2018 and January 2020, and the clinical features, surgical outcomes, complications, cost of performance, pathological diagnosis, and risk classification were evaluated.

Results

All tumors were completely resected by endoscopic resection (ER), with a complete resection rate of 100%. It was achieved by ESE/EFTR (endoscopic full-thickness resection) in 49 cases with submucosal injection, and by ESE/EFTR in 53 cases with NSI-ESE. The mean surgical time in cases with submucosal injection was 25.86 ± 4.45 min, compared to the cases without submucosal injection (17.23 ± 3.47 min), and the difference was significant (p < 0.001); the exposure time of tumor, the time of complete excavation of tumor, procedure cost, and hospital stay in the NSI-ESE group were all lower than those cases with submucosal injection (p < 0.05). In the risk classification, 95 (93.1%) cases had a very low risk, 4 (4.0%) cases had a low risk, and 2 (2.0%) cases had a high risk. No recurrence or metastasis was observed during the follow-up period of 18 ± 6 months (range: 13–25 months).

Conclusions

NSI-ESE is a feasible, effective, and safe treatment for gastric GISTs; compared to the conventional ESE, NSI-ESE has the following advantages: it decreases procedure time, it lowers the risk of perforation, and it is cost-effective.

The necessarity of treatment for small gastric subepithelial tumors (1-2 cm) originating from muscularis propria: an analysis of 972 tumors

Background and objectives

Up till now, there are still controversies about the specific indication of endoscopic resection for small gastric subepithelial tumors (gSETs) originating from muscularis propria. We aimed to investigate the safety of endoscopic resection and postoperative pathology analysis.

Method

The patients with primary small gSETs originating from muscularis propria, treated by endoscopic resection in the endoscopic center of Shengjing Hospital between January, 2011 and September, 2019 were enrolled. The complete resection rate, adverse events and clinicopathological features were recorded.

Result

A total of 936 patients with 972 gastric SETs ≤ 2 cm originating from muscularis propria were included in our study. All the lesions were successfully treated by endoscopic resection. Nearly half of lesions were proved to be gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) [n = 411 (42.3%)] according to postoperative pathology. All the objects were further subdivided into 2 groups, ≤ 1 cm, > 1 and ≤ 2 cm gSETs. The risk of gastric GIST of intermediate/high risk in the group (> 1 and ≤ 2 cm gSETs) is 8.41 times as that of gastric GIST in the group (the size of gastric ≤ 1 cm gSETs) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Endoscopic resection is a safe and effective treatment for small gSETs. gSETs (1–2 cm) is more risky than gSETs (≤ 1 cm) and should be resected. This should be evaluated by further studies.

Closure techniques in exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection: Overview and future perspectives in the endoscopic suturing era

Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) without laparoscopic assistance is a minimally invasive natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery technique that is emerging as a promising effective and safe alternative to surgery for the treatment of muscularis propria-originating gastric submucosal tumors. To date, various techniques have been used for the closure of the transmural post-EFTR defect, mainly consisting in clip- and endoloop-assisted closure methods. However, the recent advent of dedicated tools capable of providing full-thickness defect suture could further improve the efficacy and safety of the exposed EFTR procedure. The aim of our review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the different closure methods adopted in gastric-exposed EFTR without laparoscopic assistance, also considering the recent advent of flexible endoscopic suturing.

Retrospective Comparison of Endoscopic Full-Thickness Versus Laparoscopic or Surgical Resection of Small (≤ 5 cm) Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

AIM AND BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety between endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFR) and laparoscopic or surgical resection methods for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in size of 5.0 cm or less. Gastric GISTs are common, and resection is the most effective treatment.

METHOD

We retrospectively reviewed 216 resections of gastric GISTs in size of up to 5.0 cm at our center from 2009 to 2017.Eligible resection cases were divided into EFR (n = 85), laparoscopic(n = 64), and surgical (n = 67) groups. The clinical records, patient demographic, symptoms, perioperative data, pathological findings, and long-term follow-up outcomes were collected and compared statistically.

RESULTS

No tumor rupture or recurrence occurred in the three groups. The prevalence of complications was significantly lower in EFR (5.9%) than both laparoscopic (7.8%) and surgical group (16.4%) (P < 0.01). In EFR group, the R0 resection rate (95.3%) was significantly lower than in the laparoscopic group and surgical group (100%) (P < 0.001). The hospital cost (OR = 62.79, CI: 12.954-304.363, P < 0.0001) were significantly lower in the EFR than in the laparoscopic group. The hospital cost (OR = 39.032, CI: 8.045-189.371, P < 0.0001) and post-operative diet time (OR = 2.779, CI: 1.225-6.304, P < 0.05) were also significantly lower in the EFR than in the surgical group.

CONCLUSION

EFR was a feasible treatment for gastric GISTs of size of ≤ 5.0 cm with an acceptable complete resection rate. In addition, EFR had significantly fewer postoperative complications, shorter length of hospital stay, and lower cost.

Efficacy and safety of gastric exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection without laparoscopic assistance: a systematic review

Background and study aims  Exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (Eo-EFTR) without laparoscopic assistance is a minimally invasive natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) technique that has shown promising efficacy and safety in resection of gastric submucosal tumors (G-SMTs) arising from muscularis propria (MP). However, data on the efficacy and safety of gastric Eo-EFTR mostly come from relatively small retrospective studies and concern regarding its use still exists. The aim of our systematic review was to assess the efficacy and safety of gastric Eo-EFTR without laparoscopic assistance. Methods  A detailed MEDLINE and EMBASE search was performed for papers published from January 1998 to November 2019 and reporting on gastric Eo-EFTR without laparoscopic assistance. The search strategy used the terms "endoscopic full thickness resection" and "gastric" or "stomach". The primary outcomes were complete resection and surgical conversion rates. The secondary outcomes were overall major adverse events, delayed bleeding, delayed perforation, peritonitis, abdominal abscess and/or abdominal infection and successful Eo-EFTR. Results  Fifteen Asian studies were included in our final review, providing data on 750 Eo-EFTR-treated G-SMTs. The per-lesion rate of complete resection and surgical conversion were 98.8 %\0.8 %, respectively. The per-lesion rate of major adverse events, delayed bleeding, delayed perforation and peritonitis, abdominal abscess and/or abdominal infection was 1.6 %\0.5 %\0.1 %\0.9 %, respectively. The per-lesion rate of successful Eo-EFTR (i. e. complete tumor resection and effective endoscopic defect closure) was 98.3 %. Conclusions  Eo-EFTR without laparoscopic assistance appears to be highly effective and safe NOTES for removing deep G-SMTs, particularly those arising from MP layer.

Endoscopic full-thickness resection using a clip non-exposed method for gastrointestinal tract lesions: a meta-analysis

Background and study aims  Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) allows for treatment of epithelial and sub-epithelial lesions (SELs) unsuitable to conventional resection techniques. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of clip-assisted method for non-exposed EFTR using FTRD or over-the-scope clip of gastrointestinal tumors. Methods  A comprehensive literature search was performed. The primary outcome of interest was the rate of histologic complete resection (R0). Secondary outcomes of interest were the rate of enbloc resection, FTR, adverse events, and post-EFTR surgery. Random-effects model was used to calculate pooled estimates and generate forest plots. Results  Eighteen studies with 730 patients and 733 lesions were included in the analyses. Indications for EFTR were difficult/residual colorectal adenoma, adenoma at a diverticulum or appendiceal orifice and early cancer (n = 634), colorectal SELs (n = 42), and upper gastrointestinal lesions (n = 51), other colonic lesions (n = 6). Median size of lesions was 13.5 mm. There were 22 failed EFTR attempts. Pooled overall R0 resection rate was 82 % (95 % CI: 75, 89). The pooled overall FTR rate was 83 % (95 % CI: 77, 89). The pooled overall enbloc resection rate was 95 (95 % CI: 92, 96). The pooled estimates for perforation and bleeding were < 0.1 % and 2 %, respectively. Following EFTR, a total of 110 patients underwent surgery for any reason [pooled rate 7 % (95 % 2, 14). The pooled rates for post-EFTR surgery due to invasive cancer, for non-curative endoscopic resection and for adverse events were 4 %, < 0.1 % and < 0.1 %, respectively. No mortality related to EFTR was noted. Conclusions  EFTR appears to be safe and effective for gastrointestinal lesions that are not amenable to conventional endoscopic resection. This technique should be considered as an alternative to surgery in selected cases.

Endoscopic full-thickness resection for treating small tumors originating from the muscularis propria in the gastric fundus: An improvement in technique over 15 years

BACKGROUND

The fundus of the stomach is regarded as a difficult area for endoscopic resection of small tumors originating from the muscularis propria (MP tumors). Three endoscopic resection techniques have been developed to treat these tumors, including ligation-assisted endoscopic full-thickness resection (L-EFTR), snare-assisted EFTR (S-EFTR), and endoscopic submucosal dissection-assisted EFTR (E-EFTR). To date, no studies have compared these techniques.

AIM

We aimed to evaluate and compare S-EFTR with L-EFTR and E-EFTR for treating small MP tumors in the gastric fundus.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients with primary small MP tumors in the gastric fundus and treated by these three techniques between January 2016 and December 2018 at Shengjing Hospital, China. Standard demographic and clinicopathologic data, including sex, age, tumor size, surgeon details, and pathological results, were collected. Data regarding operation duration, cost, en-bloc resection, and severe complications were also extracted and compared.

RESULTS

A total of 36 patients (27 women) with a mean age of 55.8 ± 10.20 years were included in this study. The mean tumor size was 9.0 ± 3.98 mm. All the methods showed a 100% en-bloc resection rate and 0% severe complication rate. There was no statistically significant difference among the three groups in the operation duration (P = 0.148). The cost comparison for the whole procedure was as follows: E-EFTR > L-EFTR > S-EFTR (5837.5 ± 7212.96 CNY, 5970.7 ± 3465.27 CNY, 5852.0 ± 6438.25 CNY, respectively, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

S-EFTR, L-EFT, and E-EFTR are all effective for resection of small MP tumors in the gastric fundus. S-EFTR is superior in terms of cost-effectiveness.

Endoscopic Removal of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors in the Stomach: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic removal of GISTs (gastrointestinal stromal tumors) is recently recognized, but less is known about its efficacy and safety. This study is aimed at assessing the feasibility, clinical efficacy, and safety of the endoscopic removal of gastric GISTs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Endoscopic removal (ER) of GISTs was performed in 134 patients at our hospital between January 2015 and January 2019. The clinical features, surgical outcomes, complications, pathological diagnosis, and risk classification were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

ER was successful in 131 cases (98%), including 58 by ESD (endoscopic submucosal dissection), 43 by ESE (endoscopic submucosal excavation), 25 by EFTR (endoscopic full-thickness resection), and 5 by STER (submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection). In addition, GISTs of two cases were resected using LECS (laparoscopic and luminal endoscopic cooperative surgery) for the extraluminal and intraluminal growth pattern. The average tumor size was 1.89 ± 1.25 cm (range: 0.5-6.0 cm). Of these patients, 26 cases had a large tumor size (range: 2.0-6.0 cm), and endoscopic removal was successful in all of them. During the procedure, endoclips were used to close the perforation in all cases, without conversion to open surgery. The average length of hospital stay was 5.50 ± 2.15 days (range: 3-10 days). In the risk classification, 106 (79.7%) were of a very low risk, 25 (18.8%) of a low risk, and 2 (1.5%) of a moderate risk. The moderate-risk cases were treated with imatinib mesylate after ER. No recurrence or metastasis was observed during the follow-up period of 23 ± 8 months (range: 3-48 months).

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscopic treatment is feasible, effective, and safe for gastric GISTs, and individualized choice of approaches is recommended for GISTs.

The efficacy of dental floss and a hemoclip as a traction method for the endoscopic full-thickness resection of submucosal tumors in the gastric fundus

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) provides a significant advancement to the treatment of gastrointestinal submucosal tumors (SMTs). However, technological challenges, particularly in the gastric fundus, hinder its wider application. Here, we investigated the efficacy of a simple traction method that used dental floss and a hemoclip (DFC) to facilitate EFTR.

METHODS

Between July 2014 and December 2016, we retrospectively reviewed data from all patients with SMTs in the gastric fundus originating from the muscularis propria layer that were treated by EFTR at Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University. Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes, including procedure time and complications rate, were compared between groups of patients receiving DFC-EFTR and conventional EFTR.

RESULTS

A total of 192 patients were included in our analysis (64 in the DFC-EFTR group and 128 in the conventional EFTR group). Baseline characteristics for the two groups were similar. The mean time for DFC-EFTR and conventional EFTR was 44.2 ± 24.4 and 54.2 ± 33.2 min, respectively (P = 0.034). Although no serious adverse events presented in any of our cases, post-EFTR electrocoagulation syndrome (PEECS), as a minor complication, was less frequent in the DFC-EFTR group (3.1% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.036). Univariate and multivariate analysis identified that DFC, when used in EFTR, played a significant role in reducing procedure time and the rate of PEECS. The mean procedure time was significantly shorter in the DFC-EFTR group for lesions over 1.0 cm (P = 0.005), when the lesions were located in the greater curvature of the gastric fundus (P = 0.025) or when the lesions presented with intraluminal growth (P = 0.032). Moreover, when EFTR was carried out by experts, the mean procedure time was 20.4% shorter in the DFC-EFTR group (P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that DFC-EFTR for SMTs in the gastric fundus resulted in a shorter procedure time and reduced the risk of PEECS, a minor complication.

Long-term assessment of over-the-scope clip (OTSC) behavior after gastric application

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the long-term behavior of the over-the-scope clip (OTSC) after gastric application.Material and methods: A database of all patients who had OTSC placement with regular follow-up at a tertiary hospital between November 2013 and September 2016 was retrospectively analyzed. The incidence, time, and related adverse events of clip attachment and detachment were recorded. The relationship between the position of the clip and detachment was assessed by Fisher's exact test.Results: Seventy-two patients who had gastric OTSC placement due to iatrogenic perforations by endoscopic interventions were included in the study. The overall incidence of clip detachment was 27.8% (20/72). Fisher's exact test confirmed a significant association between clip detachment rate and clip position (p = .005): cardia 50% (3/6); gastric fundus 13.2% (5/38); gastric body 75% (9/16); and gastric antrum 25% (3/12). Except for one patient (5%; 1/20) who experienced minor gastric hemorrhage, there were no complications related to spontaneous clip detachment. There was no delayed bleeding, perforation, or obstruction due to clips staying in place in the long-term.Conclusions: Long-term gastric clip attachment appears to be safe even if spontaneous detachment occurs.

Endoscopic resection for subepithelial lesions-pure endoscopic full-thickness resection and submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection

Endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) and submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER) are the frontier of therapeutic endoscopic. These two methods rely on the skillset and equipment of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) while going beyond the boundaries of the gastrointestinal lumen. They are both representatives of natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery, with STER being a direct off-shoot of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). Both techniques are designed for the removal of gastrointestinal tumors originating from the muscularis propria but tend to be used in different organs and come with respective challenges. In this review we will go over the history, indication, technique and literature of these two techniques.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic resection for small submucosal tumors originating from the muscularis propria layer in the gastric fundus

BACKGROUND

Gastric small submucosal tumors (SMTs) are becoming increasingly common. However, the fundus of stomach is regarded as a difficult area for endoscopic resection (ER). In this study, we investigated the efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes of ER for small SMTs of the gastric fundus in a large series of patients, research that was previously lacking.

METHODS

537 consecutive patients with SMTs no more than 20 mm in diameter, occurring in the gastric fundus and originating from the muscularis propria layer, which were treated with endoscopic submucosal excavation or endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) were included in this retrospective study at Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University from January 2013 to September 2016. Clinicopathological, endoscopic, and follow-up data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

En bloc resection was achieved in 100% of patients, and complete resection was achieved for 530 (98.7%) lesions. Although the total rate of complications was 9.3%, few serious adverse events occurred in only three (0.6%) patients, including major pneumoperitoneum, major hydrothorax, and bleeding. Unlike lager tumor sizes and longer procedure times, endoscopist experience had a positive impact on decreasing the likelihood of complications. Based on statistical analysis, tumors with greater size near the cardia, which were treated by EFTR, were the significant contributors to longer operative times. A median follow-up of 32 months was available, and all patients were free from local recurrence or distant metastasis during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the gastric fundus presents technical difficulties, ER is effective for the resection of small gastric SMTs with a high complete resection rate and rare serious adverse events.

A modified endoscopic method for resection of gastric submucosal tumor

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Endoscopic mucosa-sparing lateral dissection (EMSLD) was developed by our group, and is used to remove gastric submucosal tumor (SMT). This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and safety of this method.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 25 patients who underwent EMSLDs at an endoscopy center as a national key unit in china from October 2015 to July 2016. The main data collected were the size of the gastric SMT, its location and origin, en bloc resection rate, operating time, intraoperative and postoperative complications, hospitalization expense, hospital days, and follow-up after hospital discharge.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) size of the gastric SMTs was 18.3 (5.9) mm; 96% (24/25) of the tumors originated in the muscularis propria; and 64% (16/25) and 28% (7/25) were located in the gastric fundus and gastric body, respectively. The rate of en bloc resection was 96% (24/25), and the rate of intraoperative perforations due to endoscopic full-thickness resection was 48% (12/25). All wounds and perforations were effectively closed using endoscopic clips combined with the retained mucosa. The mean operative time was 74.2 (38.0) min. Delayed bleeding and perforation were not observed.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic mucosa-sparing lateral dissection is safe and feasible for the removal of gastric SMTs. The wound can be effectively closed using the retained mucosa and endoscopic clips, even if perforation has occurred. EMSLD provides an alternative to the resection of gastric SMTs, especially for tumors with a risk of intraoperative perforation.

Laparoscopic sentinel node navigation surgery for early gastric cancer

Currently, the most accurate method for identifying lymph node metastasis is intraoperative diagnosis by sentinel node (SN) biopsy. Based on the SNNS study-a recent large-scale, nationwide, multicenter prospective study-the SN concept seems to be scientifically valid in patients with early gastric cancer. SN biopsy is a multistep technique consisted of six essential elements: indication, the selection of a tracer, a proper tracer injection method, the objective detection of SNs, a reliable biopsy technique, and the precise detection of nodal metastasis. For SN biopsy of gastric cancer, these elements have been validated as follows: the indication should be limited to clinical T1 less than 4 cm in diameter; combination mapping with radioactive colloid and blue dye is used as the standard; and endoscopic submucosal injection is the standard tracer injection. Detection of SNs and a reliable biopsy technique are enabled by adaptation of lymphatic basin dissection, a proper biopsy technique for gastric cancer. Lymphatic basin dissection is a selective lymphadenectomy procedure for dissecting basins en bloc, collecting lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels stained with dye. Lymphatic basin dissection is superior to the ordinary pick-up method, not only for minimizing the rate of missed SNs, but also in terms of oncological safety as it complements an intraoperative frozen section diagnosis by serving as a backup dissection. Moreover, indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence mapping has been developed in recent years. ICG fluorescence mapping is superior because of its high sensitivity and signal stability. Moreover, it is feasible for both open and laparoscopic gastrectomy in treating early gastric cancer. SN biopsy has brought dramatic changes to laparoscopic surgery for early gastric cancer. With laparoscopic SN biopsy using ICG fluorescence navigation, laparoscopic surgery for early gastric cancer has changed from the uniform standard gastrectomy with D1+ into a tailor-made function-preserving surgical procedure, such as local resection with lymphatic basin dissection.

Endoscopic resection of gastric submucosal tumors: A comparison of endoscopic nontunneling with tunneling resection and a systematic review

BACKGROUND/AIM

Endoscopic tunneling resection is a relatively novel endoscopic technology for removing gastric submucosal tumors. Our study aimed to compare the differences between tunneling and nontunneling resection for gastric submucosal tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Resections of gastric submucosal tumors (n = 97) performed from 2010 to 2015 at our endoscopy center were reviewed, and PubMed was searched for clinical studies on gastric submucosal tumor resection by endoscopic nontunneling and tunneling techniques.

RESULTS

At our endoscopy center, nontunneling (Group 1) and tunneling resection (Group 2) were performed for 78 and 19 submucosal tumors, respectively; median tumor diameters were 15 and 20 mm (P = 0.086), median procedural times were 50 and 75 min (P = 0.017), successful resection rates were 94.9% (74/78) and 89.5% (17/19) (P = 0.334), and en bloc resection rates were 95.9% (71/74) and 94.1% (16/17) (P = 0.569) in the Groups 1 and 2, respectively. Postoperative fever, delayed hemorrhage and perforation, hospitalization time, and hospitalization expense were statistically similar between the 2 groups. A literature review on gastric submucosal tumor resection suggested that the en bloc resection rates of the two methods for tumors with a median diameter of 15-30 mm were also high, and there were no relapses during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Both endoscopic nontunneling and tunneling resection seem to be effective and safe methods for removing relatively small gastric submucosal tumors. Compared with endoscopic nontunneling, tunneling resection does not seem to have distinct advantages for gastric submucosal tumors, and has a longer mean operative time.

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided puncture suture device versus metal clip for gastric defect closure after endoscopic full-thickness resection: A randomized, comparative, porcine study

Objective:

The secure closure of the wall defect is a critical stage of endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR). The aim of this study was to compare the closure of post-EFTR defects using an endoscopic ultrasound-guided puncture suture device (PSD) with the metal clip (MC) technique in a randomized, comparative, porcine study.

Methods:

We performed a randomized comparative survival study that included 18 pigs. The circular EFTR defects with a diameter of approximately 20 mm were closed with either a PSD or MC. Serum levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) were determined preoperatively and on a postoperative day (POD) 1, 3, and 7. Three animals from each group were sacrificed at the end of the 7^th, 14^th, and 30^th POD. Tissue samples retrieved from the closure sites were examined macroscopically and microscopically.

Results:

Resection and closure were performed in 18 pigs (100%) without major perioperative complications. The mean closure time was significantly longer in the MC group than in the PSD group (25.00 ± 3.16 min vs. 1.56 ± 0.39 min; P < 0.05). Preoperative and POD 7 serum levels of IL-6 did not differ between the two groups. However, on POD 1, the IL-6 levels were observed to be significantly greater in the MC group than in the PSD group (P < 0.005). No significant differences between the PSD and MC groups were observed at necropsy.

Conclusion:

In this in vivo porcine model, PSD is a feasible device that achieves post-EFTR defect closure with a much shorter closure time and with less immunological responses than the MC technique.

Local resection of the stomach for gastric cancer

The local resection of the stomach is an ideal method for preventing postoperative symptoms. There are various procedures for performing local resection, such as the laparoscopic lesion lifting method, non-touch lesion lifting method, endoscopic full-thickness resection, and laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery. After the invention and widespread use of endoscopic submucosal dissection, local resection has become outdated as a curative surgical technique for gastric cancer. Nevertheless, local resection of the stomach in the treatment of gastric cancer in now expected to make a comeback with the clinical use of sentinel node navigation surgery. However, there are many issues associated with local resection for gastric cancer, other than the normal indications. These include gastric deformation, functional impairment, ensuring a safe surgical margin, the possibility of inducing peritoneal dissemination, and the associated increase in the risk of metachronous gastric cancer. In view of these issues, there is a tendency to regard local resection as an investigative treatment, to be applied only in carefully selected cases. The ideal model for local resection of the stomach for gastric cancer would be a combination of endoscopic full-thickness resection of the stomach using an ESD device and hand sutured closure using a laparoscope or a surgical robot, for achieving both oncological safety and preserved functions.

Endoscopic Full-thickness Resection (EFTR) for Gastrointestinal Subepithelial Tumors

There has been booming interest in the endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) technique since it was first described. With the advent of improved and more secure endoscopic closure techniques and devices, such as endoscopic suturing devices, endoscopists are empowered to perform more aggressive procedures than ever. This article focuses on the procedural technique and clinical outcomes of EFTR for gastrointestinal subepithelial tumors.