Can We Eliminate Resectional Surgery for Benign Polyps? An Endoscopic Platform for GI Surgeons

Talal Alzghari, MD; Yohei Kono, MD, PHD; Kota Momose, MD, PhD; Kelly A. Garrett, MD, FACS

Product Details
Product ID: ACS-5933
Year Produced: 2019
Length: 9 min.


Over 25000 colectomies are performed for nonmalignant colorectal polyps every year in the United States. One of the reasons for this trend is that surgeons are more likely to recommend surgical resections for complex polyps. Here we report endoscopic resection case series using a double balloon platform performed by surgeon for large colonic laterally spreading tumor (LST) referred for surgery. 3 cases were included in this case series, all elderly (average age is 74 years), 1 male and 2 females. All patients with large LST were referred for colectomy after screening colonoscopy. Case 1 was a 6 cm LST-G on the fold at the ascending colon. Case 2 was an 8 cm LST-G occupying half circumference of the hepatic flexure. Case 3 was an 8 cm granular type LST (LST-G) occupying half circumference of the transverse colon. In all 3 cases, Tumors were successfully removed with hybrid EMR technique using double balloon oversheath assistance by 2 surgeons. The double balloon oversheath platform permitted improved visualization and piecemeal retrieval of tumors during procedures. The 3rd case was complicated with a minor delayed bleeding that was controlled with endoscopic management. Additional surgery was not necessary in all cases. Pathology came out with tubulovillous adenoma in all cases. The use of a double balloon oversheath platform may overcome some of the challenges in endoscopic complex polyp resection in setting up a stable surgical field. This case series suggests endoscopic removal of polyps by surgeons is feasible with good clinical outcome.