Laparo-endoscopic resection for extensive and inaccessible colorectal polyps: a feasible and safe procedure

INTRODUCTIONPolypectomy at colonoscopy may be difficult or dangerous. In such instances colonic resection may be indicated. Novel combined laparoscopic-endoscopic procedures have the potential to allow safe extensive extramucosal resection, thus avoiding resection. Laparoscopic colon mobilisation provides a more favourable orientation for endoscopic mucosal resection and facilitates identification of possible perforation sites with immediate laparoscopic repair or resection if necessary. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of laparo-endoscopic resection (LER) of colonic polyps. PATIENTS AND METHODSData were collected prospectively on consecutive patients undergoing LER. The mode of presentation, referral pattern, lesion site and size, hospital stay, procedural details, complications, histology and further treatment were recorded. RESULTSA total of 13 patients underwent attempted LER (16 polyps in total) and this was completed for 10, with a median hospital stay of 2 days. Five polyps were r...