LAPAROSCOPY-ASSISTED ENDOSCOPIC REMOVAL OF A STROMAL-CELL TUMOR OF THE STOMACH

Endoscopic resection of gastrointestinal tumors is being performed wit h increased frequency. Submucosal mass lesions pose a particular probl em, because of the risk of malignancy and the risk of complications as sociated with endoscopic removal. Increased incidences of both perfora tion and bleeding have been reported. We report here on a case in whic h we used a combined approach that included gastrointestinal endoscopy , laparoscopy, and laparoscopic ultrasound to resect a gastric leiomyo ma. We consider that this approach enhanced our diagnostic capabilitie s, provided intraoperative options for resection, and enhanced the saf ety of the procedure.