Classification of non-epithelial tumors of the upper gastrointestinal tract for the choice of surgical intervention
Submucosal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract in most cases are slowly progressive tumors for which uncharacteristically lymphogenous metastasis. Priority methods of removal of non-epithelial tumors are minimally invasive approaches: intra-luminal, laparo- and thoracoscopic surgery. In clinical practice, the most often surgeons and advanced endoscopists offer those methods which they know. Only a few units and clinics, having in use laparoscopic and intraluminal technologies, and have the opportunity to offer the patient the optimal method of surgical treatment. In these circumstances, the classification of non-epithelial tumors, which determines the surgical option, is very necessary. Our classification takes into account the localization of the tumor relative to the layers of the wall and lumen of hollow organ, the size of the base of the tumor and determines the surgical access and the extent of surgery, the most effective and safe for every type of tumor.