A novel method of endoscopic mucosal resection using sodium hyaluronate

Background: Saline-assisted endoscopic resection is an established therapeu tic method. However, it is sometimes difficult to maintain a desired level of tissue elevation after injection of saline. Therefore we decided to use a mucinous substance such as sodium hyaluronate instead of saline. Methods: Two resected porcine stomachs and five dogs were used for the stud y. The elevations, made by submucosal injections of sodium hyaluronate, wer e compared with those produced with normal saline. Sodium hyaluronate-assis ted mucosal resections were compared with the saline-assisted resections. Results: Mucosal elevations created by submucosal injections of sodium hyal uronate remained for a longer time with a clearer margin compared to those made by saline injection. Endoscopic mucosal resections were performed safe ly with the assistance of sodium hyaluronate. Conclusions: Use of sodium hyaluronate instead of saline for endoscopic muc osal resection could make the procedure easier and more reliable.