Endoscopic submucosal tunnel dissection (ESTD) has been used for dissection of large esophageal neoplastic lesions, but there are still some technical problems in treating circumferential superficial esophageal neoplastic lesions. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of endoscopic submucosal multi-tunnel dissection (ESMTD) for circumferential superficial esophageal neoplastic lesions in selected patients followed up for 1 to 12 months.

From July 2014 to February 2015, the first series of 7 consecutive patients with circumferential superficial esophageal neoplastic lesions underwent ESMTD at our endoscopic center. The macroscopic types were classified according to the Paris endoscopic classification of superficial neoplastic lesions.

The average length of lesions was 6.1 cm in 7 selected patients. The operative time ranged from 69 to 169 minutes (mean 121 minutes). En bloc dissection with negative basal margins was achieved in all lesions without serious intraoperative adverse events. Esophageal stricture was observed in all patients 1 to 3 months after the operation and was relieved after a retrievable metal stent was placed or esophageal water balloon dilatation was performed; however, one patient died of cerebral infarction 2 months after ESMTD.

ESMTD is feasible, safe, and effective for the treatment of circumferential superficial esophageal neoplastic lesions in select patients.