Laparoscopic wedge resection for benign gastric tumors

Background: Both laparoscopic wedge resection and formal laparoscopic resection are used in the treatment of benign and malignant gastric diseases. Methods: We performed totally laparoscopic wedge resection using stapling devices and three or four trocars. Patients: Four patients were treated with this technique. All four suffered from gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and one presented with an additional gastric adenoma. Two were morbidly obese, and two had additional operations performed at the same time. Two patients were admitted for acute upper GI bleeding. Results: All of the tumors were removed successfully. Operating time ranged from 135 to 215 min. Oral feeding commenced on days 2-4. Postoperative hospital stay ranged from 5 to 11 days. Conclusion: Laparoscopic wedge resection of benign gastric tumors is a safe, reliable method that should be further investigated and used on a broader scale.