Purpose: When the gastric submucosal tumor (SMT) locates adjacent to the esophagogastric junction (EGJ), it is difficult to preserve EGJ technically and oncologically. In this study, we describe our clinical experience with laparoscopic intragastric surgery (LIGS) and discuss its role for gastric SMTs adjacent to EGJ.
Methods: A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent surgical treatment of gastric SMTs adjacent to EGJ (April 1994 to May 2010). They were divided into 3 groups: laparoscopic partial gastrectomy (LAP, n=10), LIGS (n=10), and open laparotomy (OPEN, n=7), respectively.
Results: The completion rates were 50% in LAP and 90% in LIGS. Overall preservation rate of EGJ was 80% (LAP), 100% (LIGS), and 29% (OPEN), respectively. The patients who underwent total/proximal mastectomy showed significantly higher incidence of postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, which required long-term medication.
Conclusions: LIGS stays as a valuable alternative and would be an attractive option for gastric SMTs adjacent to EGJ.