A band lifting assisted method for laparoscopic resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumors on the posterior wall of the stomach.

Laparoscopic surgical techniques are beneficial for the wedge resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). We have developed a new technique of laparoscopic transgastric resection for GISTs of the posterior wall of the stomach, a band lifting wedge resection method that has been confirmed to ensure sufficient surgical margins around the resected specimen in 21 cases. GISTs located at the posterior wall of the stomach were collected for this study. Laparoscopic anterior gastrotomy was performed and a 9-Fr rubber band was looped around the base of the tumor, allowing it to be lifted up through the anterior gastrotomy. The lesion was transected using a laparoscopic linear cutter and the gastrotomy was then closed by sequential application of the linear cutter. Surgical specimens were examined immunohistochemically. All GISTs were successfully and completely resected using the laparoscopic technique. The resected tumors were ellipse-shaped or round. Macroscopic examination of the resected specimens showed complete tumor excision with negative surgical margins in all patients. A band lifting method for transection of GISTs on the posterior wall of the stomach easily allows for sufficient surgical margins of GISTs. The technique is reliable and feasible for laparoscopic treatment of GISTs in the stomach.