Abstract
Background
Surgical resection with laparoscopic gastric wedge resection is commonly conducted for local management of gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST). However, resection margins are often difficult to appreciate for lesions with larger endophytic components. As a result, tumour margins may be compromised or excess tissue resected. Laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) was developed in Japan to overcome these technical challenges in the resection of subepithelial lesions, including GISTs. Here, we present a case report of an early Canadian experience utilizing LECS in the management of gastric GIST.
Aims
To describe a case report of an early Canadian experience of LECS for the resection of a gastric GIST.
Methods
We performed a review of the literature and describe a case of LECS.
Results
We present a 70-year-old female referred to our centre for endoscopic resection of a 2.5x2.5cm histologically confirmed gastric GIST (low mitotic index and no known metastases). Repeat endoscopic evaluation at our centre confirmed a 25-30mm subepithelial lesion with both exophytic (small) and endophytic (large) components. After tumour board review, we opted for a LECS approach. In the OR, the lesion was identified endoscopically and marked with a Dual J-Knife (Olympus). The margins were injected with a combination of Voluven, methylene blue, and dilute epinephrine. A circumferential incision was then completed using standard ESD technique. The lesion was subsequently identified laparoscopically, with endoscopic guidance, along the lesser curvature. The lesser omentum was mobilized for clear visualization of the serosa around the lesion. A full thickness incision was made endoscopically along the distal aspect of lesion. Full thickness resection was continued endoscopically for one third of the circumference of the lesion until gastric insufflation became compromised. Full thickness resection was completed laparoscopically under endoscopic guidance with grossly negative margins. The defect was closed with running laparoscopic sutures. Endoscopic leak test was performed which was negative. The specimen was retrieved and follow up pathology demonstrated a GIST with low mitotic index and negative margins without tumour rupture.
Conclusions
In a review of the literature, LECS appears to minimize tissue resection while maintaining R0 resection rates. This technique is especially useful for subepithelial lesions with larger endophytic and transmural components. It has an excellent safety profile with a less than 5% anastomotic leak rate. As such, the literature supports LECS as a suitable procedure for gastric subepithelial lesions <50 mm. However, further studies are needed to compare it systematically to conventional laparoscopic wedge resection in addition to other innovative endoscopic techniques such as STER and EFTR.
Funding Agencies
None
Endocarditis following an unsuccessful attempt to remove a gastric GI stromal tumor by laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery
