Gastric Antrum Lipoma: Is Surgery Necessary?

The gastric antrum serves as a crucial passage for food moving from the stomach to the small intestine. Lipomas in this region are relatively rare and often do not present significant symptoms. In the past, before the advancement of endoscopic techniques, small lipomas that did not cause obstruction or noticeable issues were typically left untreated.

However, with the development of modern endoscopic treatment methods, the approach to gastric antrum lipomas has changed. Today, minimally invasive procedures allow for the safe and effective removal of these growths with little to no trauma to surrounding tissues. Endoscopic submucosal dissection is now the preferred method for removing antral lipomas, offering a quick and efficient solution.

During the procedure, the lipoma is carefully peeled away from the submucosal layer using an endoscope. This technique results in minimal bleeding and immediate relief of symptoms, such as discomfort or partial blockage. Patients often experience a rapid recovery with few complications.

In summary, while not all gastric antrum lipomas require treatment, those causing symptoms can now be effectively managed through minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. This advancement has significantly improved outcomes and reduced the need for traditional surgical intervention.