Endoscopic submucosal tunnel tumor resection for benign submucosal tumors of the cervical esophagus: Strategies and complications

Objective To evaluate the feasibility and safety of endoscopic submucosal tunnel tumor resection for benign submucosal tumors of the cervical esophagus. Methods Twelve patients undergoing endoscopic submucosal tunnel resection for cervical esophageal submucosal tumors from January 2017 to January 2018 at our hospital were collected, and the en bloc resection rate, curative resection rate, hospital stay, and related complications were analyzed. Results All the 12 patients with cervical esophageal submucosal tumors underwent endoscopic submucosal tunnel tumor resection, including 7 males and 5 females. Their mean age was (58.3±11.6) years, the average distance from the incisors was (19.41±0.51) cm, the diameter of resected tumors was (16.25±6.44) mm, and the operating time was (45.00±6.57) min. The en bloc resection rate was 91.67% (11/12), and the curative resection rate was 100% (12/12). There was no perforation during the operation, but one case had intraoperative bleeding. Fever occurred in 8 (66.67%) cases after operation, and throat discomfort or post-breast bone burning sensation developed in 9 (75.00%) cases. The mean hospital stay was (8.17±1.11) days. No residual lesions, recurrence, or esophageal stricture were found during follow-up. Conclusion Endoscopic submucosal tunnel tumor resection can be used as a safe and effective method for benign submucosal tumors of the cervical esophagus. Key words: Submucosal tunnel resection; Endoscope; Benign submucosal tumors of the cervical esophagus; Complications