A New Method for Intraluminal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Resection Using Laparoscopic Seromuscular Dissection Technique

<i>Introduction:</i> It is difficult to confirm the location of an intraluminal gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and to laparoscopically determine the appropriate resection line. We report a new technique for the resection of GISTs using the laparoscopic seromuscular dissection (LSD) technique, which can be preformed regardless of the tumor location. <i>Methods:</i> Since 2009, 5 patients have undergone LSD technique for the resection of an intraluminal GIST. The tumor location was confirmed endoscopically, and the exact resection line was marked laparoscopically. After 10% glycerin was injected into the submucosal layer, LSD was performed circumferentially. The tumor was exteriorized into the abdominal cavity and dissected using a linear stapling device. <i>Results:</i> The average operation time for this procedure was 134.4 ± 18.6 min, and the mean estimated blood loss was 10 ± 8.9 ml. None of the 5 cases required open surgery. There was no tumor rupture or disruption or any other perioperative complications using this technique. <i>Conclusion:</i> We conclude that the LSD technique may be a safe and minimally invasive method for the resection of intraluminal GISTs, regardless of the tumor location.