Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection using the water pressure method for diverticulum-associated lesions: A case series study (with video)

Background and study aims Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of diverticulum-associated lesions is challenging because these lesions require precise excision in narrow spaces. The water pressure method (WPM) uses active water pressure by the waterjet function under saline solution-filled conditions. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of WPM for resection of diverticulum-associated lesions. Patients and methods This was a retrospective, observational case series study. We reviewed diverticulum-associated lesions treated by ESD with WPM at our institution between June 2017 and July 2021. Diverticulum-associated lesions were classified as follows: type 1, lesions in contact with or within 3 mm of the edge of a diverticulum; type 2, lesions that partially infiltrated the interior of a diverticulum; and type 3, lesions that infiltrated the interior of and completely covered the diverticulum. We collected data on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of the lesions. Results Seven diverticulum-associated lesions were treated with ESD using WPM. The median lesion size was 37 mm (interquartile range: 25–54 mm). There were three cases of type 1, three cases of type 2, and one case of type 3. Three lesions were resected circumventing the diverticulum, and four lesions involved resection of the diverticulum. The en bloc resection and R0 resection rates were 86 %. One patient had severe fibrosis, which caused perforation, and in another patient, the diverticulum was too deep and narrow to be completely isolated. Conclusions WPM allowed for precise procedures in the diverticulum. The feasibility of WPM has been suggested for diverticulum-associated lesions, although cases have been complex.