Overview
This article details a protocol for longitudinal incision endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE) as an improved method for removing small gastric subepithelial lesions (SELs ≤ 2 cm). The longitudinal incision technique is compared to the conventional circular incision, demonstrating advantages in operative efficiency, defect closure, and safety.
Key Study Components
Area of Science
- Gastroenterology
- Endoscopic surgery
- Minimally invasive procedures
Background
- Endoscopic submucosal excavation (ESE) is used to manage gastric subepithelial lesions.
- Traditional circular incisions can create large defects that are difficult to close.
- Efficient closure and reduced operative time are important for patient outcomes.
- There is a need for improved techniques to optimize ESE for small gastric SELs.
Purpose of Study
- To present a detailed protocol for longitudinal incision ESE.
- To compare the longitudinal incision technique with the conventional circular incision in terms of procedural success, operative time, and safety.
- To assess the feasibility and technical outcomes of the new approach.
Methods Used
- Marking the lesion margin with dots in a circular pattern, 3–5 mm outside the lesion edge.
- Submucosal injection of indigo rouge to elevate the mucosa.
- Making a longitudinal incision along the central axis of the lesion using an electrosurgical knife.
- Dissecting and separating submucosal tissue to fully expose and free the lesion.
- Hemostasis using electrosurgical knife and hemostatic forceps as needed.
- Primary closure of the defect with sequential application of metal clips under suction.
- Retrospective comparison of outcomes between longitudinal (n=21) and circular (n=31) incision groups.
Main Results
- The longitudinal incision group achieved a 100% procedural success rate.
- Mean operation time was significantly shorter for the longitudinal group (51.43 ± 5.56 min) compared to the circular group (70.00 ± 6.96 min, P=0.0179).
- Reduced need for advanced closure devices in the longitudinal group (5% vs. 28%).
- Low complication rates in both groups, with no serious postoperative events.
Conclusions
- The longitudinal incision ESE technique is safe, effective, and feasible for gastric SELs ≤ 2 cm.
- This method offers practical advantages in operative efficiency and defect management.
- It may reduce the need for additional closure devices and consumables.
What is the main innovation of the longitudinal incision ESE technique?
The main innovation is making a straight-line incision along the central axis of the lesion, which simplifies closure and reduces operative time compared to the conventional circular incision.
For which patients is the longitudinal incision ESE technique most suitable?
This technique is ideal for patients with gastric subepithelial lesions measuring two centimeters or less.
How is the defect closed after lesion removal?
The defect is closed using sequential application of metal clips, with suction to approximate the mucosal edges for effective closure.
What are the main benefits of the longitudinal incision compared to the circular incision?
The longitudinal incision results in a shorter operation time, easier defect closure, and reduced need for advanced closure devices, with similar safety outcomes.
Were there any significant complications associated with the longitudinal incision technique?
No serious postoperative complications, such as perforation or severe pain, were observed in either group, and the incidence of major complications was 0%.
What is a key technical challenge of the longitudinal incision method?
Ensuring that the longitudinal incision is exactly centered over the lesion's long axis is a key technical challenge.
How was the effectiveness of the new technique evaluated?
Effectiveness was evaluated through a retrospective comparison of procedural success, operation time, and complication rates between the longitudinal and circular incision groups.