Endoscopic resection for esophageal gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Balancing R0 resection and long-term outcomes.

Abstract

Xu et al retrospectively assessed endoscopic resection (ER) for esophageal gastrointestinal stromal tumors (E-GISTs) and reported excellent 5-year survival rates. Although ER shows promise as a minimally invasive procedure, the 75% R0 resection rate with recurrence observed even after R0 resection warrants further discussion. We highlight the need for careful patient selection based on tumor size, location, and risk, considering endoscopic and thoracoscopic approaches. Future studies should refine ER techniques, optimize patient selection, and establish long-term follow-up to guide E-GIST management.