Clinical outcomes of cap-assisted endoscopic resection for small rectal subepithelial tumors

Application of in vivo traction-assisted resection of proximal colon lesions: a case series (with video)

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the treatment of choice for colorectal neoplasms in Japan. ESD can completely peel off the lesion and is associated with a significantly lower recurrence rate of colorectal cancers than EMR and is widely used to treat gastrointestinal tumors. This study aimed to evaluate in vivo traction in endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of proximal colon lesions.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients with lesions in the proximal colon who received ESD treatment at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University from June 2018 to December 2020. Patients were divided into two groups according to the in vivo traction method (orthodontic ring or elastic ring) during operation. The operation time, dissection time, proportion of complete resection of lesions, and complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There were 28 patients in this study. In the orthodontic ring group (n = 10), the average lesion diameter was 2.0-2.5 cm, and the average operation and dissection times were 26.5 ± 7.47 and 21.5 ± 7.47 min, respectively. In the elastic ring group (n = 18), the average lesion diameter was 2.5-5.5 cm, and the average operation and dissection times were 27.39 ± 11.83 and 22.39 ± 11.83 min, respectively. All lesions were completely resected in a single operation, and no wound perforation and delayed bleeding occurred.

CONCLUSION

In vivo traction-assisted ESD can be used to resect proximal colon lesions in selected patients (precancerous lesions and early colon cancer limited to the mucosa or with a submucosa infiltration depth of < 1000 µm).

Advancing endoscopic traction techniques in endoscopic submucosal dissection

Traction techniques have emerged as a desirable "second-hand" while performing endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), enabling adequate visualization of submucosal tissue and vasculature, which allows for safe and efficient dissection. Multiple traction techniques have been developed over the years, and these can be broadly divided into internal and external traction techniques. This arsenal of techniques allows for traction that is personalized to the location of the lesion undergoing ESD. Mastering traction techniques requires structured training, and understanding of the benefits and pitfalls of each technique. Future research and development efforts need to focus on pathways and curriculums for trainees to master the currently available endoscopic traction techniques and provide avenues for the development of newer traction modalities.