Abstract

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common subepithelial tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. They originate from mesenchymal tissue. Because of difficulties in discriminating between benign and malignant GISTs, the treatment modality is selected on the base of tumor size, mitosis count, location, originating layer, and the presence of complications. Regular follow-up, open resection, or laparoscopic operation were considered main treatments for GISTs. Surgical resection is standard treatment for a huge GIST. However, the treatment method is not determined for GISTs of less than 3 cm that show a benign clinical course. Recently, endoscopic treatment was attempted because of recent endoscope developments and associated devices. We report three cases of gastric GISTs with a high risk of aggressive behavior that were successfully treated by endoscopic resection. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 2011;42:98-104)

• Keywords: GIST, Endoscopic resection