Endoscopic Application of Nd-YAG Laser and High Frequency Electric Current to High Risk or Aged Cases of Early Gastric Carcinoma

Abstract

We have experienced a total of 102 early gastric carcinomas (EGC) in the period from May 1982 to March 1985. Forty-four EGCs cases were treated with endoscopic local coagulation therapy (ELT), using the Nd-YAG laser or high frequency electric current (electro-coagulation). The patients (with an average age of 71.1 years) consisted and the remaining 8 were patients with particularly small EGC.
Following ELT treatment no malignancy in biopsy specimens has been found in 34 of the 44 cases (77.3%) by detailed follow-up examinations up to August 1985. No accident and no complication due to ELT occurred. Taking these facts and the safetiness of ELT into consideration, ELT should occupy an important role in the latest treatment of EGCs.