Laparoscopic approach of gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): is it still a courageous choice? Report of two cases..

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are a well-defined clinicopathologic and molecular tumor entity, representing the most common gastrointestinal mesenchymal neoplasm. Differential diagnosis between GIST and other mesenchymal malignancies is crucial, given the successful management using targeted therapy in metastatic GIST. The mainstay of treatment remains surgery, complete tumor resection being the most important independent prognostic factor. Videolaparoscopic approach is still controversial for the high risk of tumor rupture or bleeding. Here we report 2 cases of GIST surgically resected using a videolaparoscopic approach and discuss the efficacy of this technique in selected patients.