Magnetic anchor technique-assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection for treatment of early-stage colorectal cancer

Abstract

Abstract The incidence of colorectal cancer is high. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment are particularly important. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is used to treat early-stage cancer, and the ESD-assisted magnetic anchor technique (MAT) has greatly changed the operating experience of endoscopists. The present study aimed to determine the feasibility of MAT-assisted ESD for the treatment of early-stage colorectal cancer. We designed and manufactured a magnetic anchor device consisting of a target magnet (TM), an anchor magnet (AM), and a soft-tissue clip. The TM was fixed on the diseased mucosa by means of the soft-tissue clip, and the AM was located exterior to the colorectal sample. By changing the position of the AM, the TM was pulled to fully expose the mucosal surface and maintain sufficient tissue tension to assist the ESD. MAT-assisted ESD was successfully completed in all 12 isolated colorectal samples. During the operation, there were no instances of TM detachment or mucosal tears. The interaction between the magnets provided sufficient mucosal tissue tension and a clear mucosal dissection surface, which greatly changed the ESD experience. MAT-assisted ESD is a feasible procedure for the treatment of early-stage colorectal cancer and has great potential for clinical application.