Optimal management of GIST tumors located near the gastroesophageal junction: Case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: The safety and oncologic outcome of laparoscopic gastric GIST resection is well established especially for lesions <5 cm in diameter. The optimal management of GIST tumors near the GE junction remains unclear. METHODS: We present a case-report of a 4.7 cm GIST tumor near the GE junction managed by endoscopically-assisted laparoscopic wedge resection (EAWR). We present a review of the literature highlighting the various combined laparo-endoscopic techniques available. RESULTS: We used the non-touch lesion-lifting method to laparoscopically resect the GIST tumor under endoscopic guidance. There were no complications and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 3. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopically-assisted laparoscopic wedge resections are feasible and safe for GIST tumors near the GE junction.