Efficacy and safety of laparoscopic surgery vs open surgery in gastrointestinal tumor resection: a systematic review

Abstract

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) arise from mesenchymal tissues of gastrointestinal GI tract. This tumor comes in the category of rare tumor as it makes up only 1 to 3% of tumors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is important to note that it is most prevalent type of tumor originating from mesenchymal cells, accounting for 80% of cases within this category. Despite other treatments, surgical resection is cornerstone of treatment for non-metastatic GISTs. In recent decades, surgical procedures to remove GISTs has witnessed a paradigm shift towards minimally invasive techniques, e.g. laparoscopic surgery (LAP). Open surgery is also being frequently used but it is generally recommended based on other factors such as tumor location in GI tract or whether it is localized or has spread in other organs or tissues. LAP is more advanced form of surgery and it is recommended because of reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, lower rate of hospitalization and post-operative complications compared to open surgery. In this paper, we aim to discuss surgical interventions for GISTs, with clear aim to compare LAP with Open Surgery OS.