A new traction method (traction ring) for colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection: a retrospective study

Abstract Background Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a challenging operation because it is often difficult to attain good visualization of the submucosal layer. Lots of traction methods have been developed to facilitate submucosal dissection, but still not widely applied. Therefore, we designed a new traction device "traction ring". This pilot study is to evaluate if traction ring is feasible and safe for colorectal ESD. Methods We retrospectively analyzed 20 patients with colorectal lesions who had undergone traction ring assisted ESD. The main outcome was the rate of en bloc resection, R0 resection rate, procedure time, resection time, intraoperative and postoperative complications. Results The median procedure time was 74.5 min (range 35–269 min.). The median resection time was 55 min (range 25–209 min.). The application of the traction system accounting for only 2.7% of the whole procedure time. Rate of en bloc resection was 95% (19/20). Rate of R0 resections was 90% (18/20). All traction rings were successfully settled and retrieved. No serious excessive intraoperative bleeding was observed. One patient was found perforation after treatment, no further intervention was required. No delayed complications were observed within one month after the operation. Conclusions This retrospective study demonstrated that the new countertraction method (traction ring) may become a safe, effective and simple way to assist ESD for colorectal lesions.