Intragastric SILS for GIST, a new challenge in oncologic surgery: first experiences.

Background: For treatment of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour (GIST) located in unreachable areas, such as the esophagogastric junction or pyloric ring, laparoscopic resection cannot be easily applied. We used single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) for intragastric resection of GISTs.

Patients And Methods: We report on our cases (n=3) of GIST of the stomach treated with the SILS port placed intragastrically through the anterior wall of the stomach. A skin incision of only 2.5 cm was made to perform this intervention.

Results: The patients mean age was 68.1 years (range=53-86). The mean operative time was 74.6 (range=67-82) minutes. No intra-operative complications occurred. No conversion was needed. The mean tumor size was 3.8 cm (range=2.7-6.8 cm). All patients healed without any complications. Re-alimentation was started on the third postoperative day. The mean postoperative stay was five days (range: 4-6 days).

Conclusion: This intragastric SILS procedure for GIST is feasible and safe, and offers a benefiet for further progress in oncologic surgery.