Endoscopic resection of subepithelial tumors

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopy
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Subepithelial tumors (SETs) are frequently discovered incidentally during endoscopic procedures.
• While endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) aids in differential diagnosis, it often lacks definitive diagnostic accuracy for SETs.
• Current management involves surveillance via endoscopy and EUS, posing challenges in patient compliance, cost, and risks of delayed diagnosis or complications from repeated procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review various endoscopic techniques for the management of subepithelial tumors (SETs).
• To discuss endoscopic resection as a method for both treatment and accurate histologic diagnosis of SETs.
• To provide an overview of endoscopic approaches for SETs, from simple resection to advanced dissection techniques.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on endoscopic management of SETs.
• Analysis of different endoscopic resection techniques, including snare resection and endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection.
• Discussion of the diagnostic and therapeutic roles of endoscopic interventions for SETs.

Main Results:

• Endoscopic resection offers a dual benefit of therapeutic intervention and definitive histologic diagnosis for SETs.
• Various endoscopic techniques are available, catering to different types and locations of SETs.
• Advanced techniques like endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection expand the possibilities for minimally invasive SET management.

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic resection is a valuable approach for managing SETs, providing both treatment and diagnostic certainty.
• The choice of endoscopic technique depends on the specific characteristics of the SET.
• Minimally invasive endoscopic strategies are advancing the field of SET management, offering alternatives to traditional surgery.