Hybrid Laparo-Endoscopic Resection of Submucosal Cardial Tumors Assisted by Flexible Articulated Instruments.

We report a new surgical method in 10 patients who underwent hybrid laparo-endoscopic resection (HLER) of submucosal tumors with the combination of flexible articulated laparoscopic instruments (FALI). We have assessed technical reproducibility, safety, and morbidity. Resection was completed in all cases. Mean surgical time was 60 min (30-85). Median tumor size was 16 mm (12-30). The more frequent location was the gastroesophageal junction. No complications were observed during the procedure. Length of stay was 1 day in all cases. We have found HLER to be a safe procedure allowing margin resection and organ preservation. The addition of FALI added ease of performance in hard-to-reach tumor locations.