Published online Jul 14, 2016. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i26.5917
Peer-review started: March 28, 2016
First decision: May 27, 2016
Revised: June 5, 2016
Accepted: June 15, 2016
Article in press: June 15, 2016
Published online: July 14, 2016
Processing time: 101 Days and 18.9 Hours
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is problematic with regard to en bloc and curable resection rates. Advancements in endoscopic techniques have enabled novel endoscopic approaches such as endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), which has overcome some EMR problems, and has become the standard treatment for gastrointestinal tumors. However, ESD is technically difficult. Procedure time is longer and complications such as intraoperative perforation and bleeding occur more frequently than in EMR. Recently various traction methods have been introduced to facilitate ESD procedures, such as clip with line, external forceps, clip and snare, internal traction, double scope, and magnetic anchor. Each method must be used appropriately according to the anatomical characteristics. In this review we discuss recently proposed traction methods for ESD based on the characteristics of various anatomical sites.
Core tip: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is technically one of the most difficult endoscopic procedures. Recently, traction methods have been introduced to facilitate ESD procedures, various types of which have been proposed. Each traction method must be used appropriately according to anatomical characteristics. We discuss recently proposed traction methods for ESD based on the characteristics of various anatomical sites.