Preliminary analysis of hybrid laparoscopic procedure for resection of gastric submucosal tumors

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the feasibility, safety and benefits of minimally invasive surgery for resection of gastric submucosal tumor (GSMT). Methods: we conducted a retrospective study of medical records of patients undergoing endoscopy-assisted laparoscopic resection of gastric submucosal tumors (prospectively collected) from 2011 to 2014. We evaluated clinical data, surgical approach, clinicopathological characteristics of the GSMT (size, location, histopathological and immunohistochemical exams), outcome and patients follow-up. Results: we evaluated six patients, 50% male, mean age 52±18 years and common symptoms of heartburn and gastric fullness. All patients underwent hybrid procedure without anatomical impairment of the organ. The average length of stay was 3.5 days and the average size of the tumors was 2.0±0.8cm, five of them (83%) in the proximal third of the stomach. The surgical specimens pathological and immunohistochemistry examination revealed one case of ectopic pancreas (17%), one grade 2 neuroendocrine tumor (17%), one lipoma (17%), one GIST (17%) and two leiomyomas (32%). There were no episodes of tumor rupture or intraoperative complications and no conversion to open surgery. During the postoperative follow-up period, none of the patients had recurrence, metastasis, fistula or stenosis. Conclusion: the results showed that endoscopy-assisted laparoscopic resection is feasible and safe for patients with GSMT. Endoscopy proved to be essential in the location of lesions and as intraoperative support, especially when attempting to preserve the pylorus and cardia during surgery.