Snare-assisted submucosal tunneling for resection of esophageal schwannomas: Case Report

TL;DR

A new endoscopic technique successfully removes a large esophageal tumor, offering improved outcomes for similar complex cases.

Contribution

A novel snare-assisted traction technique combined with submucosal tunneling for resecting large esophageal schwannomas.

Findings

The novel technique enabled successful en bloc resection of a large esophageal schwannoma.

The patient recovered well postoperatively with complete healing confirmed on follow-up endoscopy.

The technique shows potential for improved efficiency and outcomes in complex submucosal tumor resections.

Abstract

Esophageal schwannoma is a rare type of esophageal tumor that presents significant challenges in resection, particularly when large and irregularly shaped. This case report highlights the successful removal of a large esophageal schwannoma using a novel technique that combines submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection (STER) with modified snare-assisted external traction. A 68-year-old male with dysphagia was diagnosed with a 35 mm × 20 mm × 15 mm esophageal schwannoma. Due to the tumor’s size and consistency, traditional resection methods proved difficult. The snare-assisted traction technique, applied within the submucosal tunnel, provided optimal tension and improved visualization, enabling en bloc resection. The patient recovered well postoperatively, and follow-up endoscopy confirmed complete healing. This novel traction technique is safe and effective for the resection of large esophageal submucosal tumors (SMTs), offering enhanced procedural efficiency and better outcomes in complex cases. However, the clinical utility of this technique requires confirmation through prospective studies with adequate sample sizes and long-term outcome assessments.

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