Optimal management of GIST tumors located near the gastroesophageal junction: Case report and review of the literature

•There are several endoscopic, laparoscopic and open surgical procedures available for the management of GIST tumors near the GE junction.•We present a case-report utilizing both endoscopy and laparoscopy to facilitate resection using the non-touch lesion-lifting technique.•Pathology demonstrated a 4.7 cm GIST. The patient was discharged on post-operative day 3 with no complications.•We include a full literature review and describe the various combined modalities available for successful resection.

IntroductionThe safety and oncologic outcome of laparoscopic gastric GIST resection is well established especially for lesions <5 cm in diameter. The optimal management of GIST tumors near the GE junction remains unclear.MethodsWe present a case-report of a 4.7 cm GIST tumor near the GE junction managed by endoscopically-assisted laparoscopic wedge resection (EAWR). We present a review of the literature highlighting the various combined laparo-endoscopic techniques available.ResultsWe used the non-touch lesion-lifting method to laparoscopically resect the GIST tumor under endoscopic guidance. There were no complications and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 3.ConclusionsEndoscopically-assisted laparoscopic wedge resections are feasible and safe for GIST tumors near the GE junction.