Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Surgery Options

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) surgery varies depending on the size, location of the tumor, and the expertise of the medical facility. As a type of malignant tumor, GISTs can begin as benign when small, but once the tumor's capsule ruptures during surgery, it is classified as malignant. This makes the patient high-risk, emphasizing the importance of surgical technique and maintaining tumor integrity throughout the procedure.

There are two primary surgical approaches for GIST removal: open surgery and laparoscopic surgery. Open surgery is generally considered safer but comes with greater tissue trauma and a longer recovery period. In contrast, laparoscopic surgery is less invasive but requires a higher level of surgical skill due to its technical complexity. Surgeons with extensive experience in minimally invasive techniques may prefer laparoscopic methods, while those with less experience may opt for the traditional open approach. The specific surgical plan depends heavily on the tumor's position within the stomach.

For tumors located in the gastric body or fundus, a partial gastrectomy is often the preferred method. However, if the tumor is found in the pyloric or cardia regions of the stomach, a more extensive resection—such as a subtotal gastrectomy—may be necessary. In cases where the tumor is small and located in the pylorus or cardia, endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) under laparoscopic guidance has emerged as a promising alternative. This advanced technique allows for precise tumor removal with minimal impact on the patient, offering improved outcomes and faster recovery times.