Multipolar traction with homemade “spider” device to improve submucosal dissection of gastric superficial lesions is safe and effective

In recent years, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been a revolution for en bloc resection of large superficial tumors of the digestive tract including the stomach. The European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy recommends ESD as the treatment of choice for most gastric superficial neoplastic lesions [1]. However, it remains a time-consuming technique with a long learning curve. Several suggestions have been made in order to improve the technique [2] [3] [4] [5], but the lateral and distal edges of the incision remain tricky sections.

Here, we report the case of an 83-year-old man followed for 2 years for a precancerous lesion located in the antrum of the stomach. The latest biopsies showed superficial adenocarcinoma. Computer tomography did not show any lymph node invasion or metastasis. Endoscopic examination and endoscopic ultrasonography showed that the lesion was confined to the mucosal layer, and so in accordance with the recommendations an ESD was proposed.

As shown in [Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], and [Video 1], we employed a multipolar traction system using a homemade “spider” device with a central rubber band attached with four circular wires. The system was installed just after performing the circumferential incision, fixing metallic clips to the distal and lateral poles of the lesion. Finally, the rubber band was attached to the opposite wall to ease visualization of the dissection line, especially in the final steps. Dissection was subsequently easily and safely performed thanks to this multipolar traction.

Fig. 1 a–c Schematic representation of the multipolar traction system. a Multipolar traction system brought to the operation site. b Fixation to each pole of the lesion with endoclips. c Countertraction to the opposite mucosal wall.

Fig. 2 a–d Steps in the fixation of the multipolar traction system. a Pre-prepared multipolar traction system. b Pole fixation with endoclip. c Result of the countertraction. d Piece of superficial adenocarcinoma.

Video 1 Submucosal dissection of a superficial gastric adenocarcinoma using a multipolar traction system.

This new multipolar traction system is effective because it allows constant stretching of the lesion during the procedure, including on the lateral and distal edges, which are often technically difficult sections. This new technique needs to be evaluated but could be added to the panel of dissection strategies to improve the efficacy and safety of the procedure.

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Publication History

Article published online:
19 November 2021

• References

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