Comparison of Retroflexed and Forward Views for Colorectal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Abstract
Background: The use of a retroflexed view exposes the entire tumor surface, which is obscured
in the forward view, and contributes to complete tumor resection when combined with forward
views. However, the efficacy and safety of using the retroflexed view for colorectal endoscopic
submucosal dissection (ESD) are poorly understood.
Methods: In this study, we assessed the efficacy and safety of the retroflexed view in colorectal
ESD. From April 2009 to December 2013, 130 colorectal tumors were examined in 128 patients
treated with ESD. A total of 119 patients with a mean tumor size of 27.2 mm were enrolled in the
study, and these patients were assigned to undergo colorectal ESD with or without a retroflexed
view.
Results: The use of retroflexion was successful in 84.2% of patients. There were no perforations
in the study and no complications related to the use of retroflexed views. The mean procedure
time was 103.6±55.8 min in the retroflexed group, as compared with 108.0±66.5 min in the
forward view group. The mean procedure time for resecting tumors >40 mm was significantly
shorter in the retroflexed group relative to the forward group. Additionally, the mean dissection
speed per unit area was significantly faster in the retroflexed group, as compared with the forward
group.
Conclusions: Retroflexed views can be used to remove lesions >40 mm and shorten procedure
times. Retroflexion may also contribute to an improved en bloc resection rate