Abstract
BACKGROUND: The spectrum of gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs) in the upper gastrointestinal system ranges from non-neoplastic to malignant lesions, with gastrointestinal stromal tumors exhibiting inherent malignant potential. However, the diagnosis of SMTs remains challenging, and treatment methods, especially for tumors located at the cardia or esophagogastric junction (EGJ), are not well established. Minimally invasive techniques - such as endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER), and laparoscopic wedge resection (LWR) - have been developed for these lesions. However, comparative data on their feasibility, safety, and clinical outcomes in these locations remain limited. AIM: To compare ESD, STER, and LWR for SMTs at the EGJ or cardia, focusing on procedural feasibility. METHODS: This single-center retrospective study included patients with SMTs less than 45 mm from the muscularis propria, growing intraluminally at the EGJ or cardia, and treated with ESD, STER, or LWR between July 2014 and September 2022. The primary outcome was relapse-free survival during follow-up. RESULTS: The median age (interquartile range) was 53.0 (40.0-57.5), 43.0 (39.0-57.0), and 56.0 (43.0-64.0) years for ESD, STER, and LWR, respectively. The median follow-up time (interquartile range) was 60.0 (26.5-66.5), 24.0 (13.0-38.0), and 35.0 (21.0-60.0) months. LWR had the largest tumors (30.0 mm) and the highest rate of high-risk gastrointestinal stromal tumors (68.0%, P < 0.001). Tumor recurrence occurred in one LWR patient (4.0%, P = 0.600). En bloc and macroscopic resection rates were 100% (P = 1.000), but microscopic resection rates differed (P = 0.021). Significant minor complications occurred in 5 patients (10.0%), all grade IIIa. Tumor location (cardia/fundus, P = 0.006) and prolonged procedure time (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with complications. CONCLUSION: ESD, STER, and LWR are effective for SMTs at the EGJ and cardia, with minor complications associated with tumor location and procedure time, and comparable recurrence rates.