Factors Associated with Operation Time of Laparoscopic Wedge Resection for Gastric Submucosal Tumors

Choi, Kyu Sung; Jeong, Gui Ae; Cho, Gyu Seok; Kang, Kil Ho; Kim, Yong Jin; Lee, Moon Su; Kim, Hyung Chul; Song, Ok Pyung

Abstract

PURPOSE
Laparoscopic gastric wedge resection (LWR) is being increasingly performed as a safe and effective treatment for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs). However, there are few studies on the factors associated with operation time of LWR for gastric SMTs. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associated with the operation time of LWR for gastric SMTs.
METHODS
Between June 2001 and December 2008, 58 patients with gastric SMTs underwent LWR. We analyzed the clinicopathologic data, perioperative parameters and outcomes, and surgeon's experience retrospectively. We also analyzed the factors associated with the operation time of LWR for gastric SMTs.
RESULTS
Among 58 patients that underwent LWR, exogastric wedge resection (n=48) was mainly performed. Transgastric wedge resection (n=8) took the longest amount of time. Intraoperative GFS (n=7) was frequently performed for smaller tumors. When the tumor was located at the cardia and fundus, more time was needed for LWR of the SMTs. There was no correlation of the operation time with the clinicopathologic data and surgeon's experience; however, the tumor location (axis) and the approach used for the resection of the stomach were statistically correlated with the operation time.
CONCLUSION
The operation time of LWR for gastric SMTs was related to the tumor location (according to gastric axis) and the approach used for the resection of the stomach. If the tumor location was identified precisely and the proper approach for resection of the stomach was determined preoperatively, the operation time of LWR for gastric SMTs might be reduced.