Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery (TEM) for rectal GI stromal tumor

Abstract

BackgroundTransanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is effective in treating adenomas and select early rectal cancers. Our objective is to evaluate TEM in treating early rectal GISTs. MethodsPatients were identified in a prospective database with pathology confirmed rectal GIST prior to TEM over 10 years. Demographic, pathologic, operative and follow-up data was analysed and presented with descriptive statistics. Results7 cases of rectal GIST were treated with TEM with a follow-up time of 31 months (0–71). Median tumor distance from the anal verge was 4 cm (2.5–6) and median tumor size was 3 cm (2–5.7). Negative margins were achieved in 4/7 patients. Those with positive margins were treated with repeat TEM or imatinib. 1 patient had local recurrence successfully treated by TEM. ConclusionsOverall, TEM is safe for locally excising GISTs. As rectal GISTs are rare, a multicenter registry may better elucidate outcomes with this treatment.