Laparoscopic small bowel resection of metastatic pulmonary carcinosarcoma

Abstract

Carcinosarcoma of the lung is a rare malignancy consisting of both epithelial and mesenchymal components. Although metastatic disease is common, metastatic disease to the small intestine is rare and has been reported only once in the literature. An unusual case of pulmonary carcinosarcoma with metastasis to the small bowel is presented. At the time of laparoscopic exploration, a 4 x 4 cm mass was seen in the jejunum involving the adjacent mesentery. The affected small bowel and mesentery were resected laparoscopically and bowel continuity was restored through an entirely intracorporeal technique. Laparoscopic small bowel resection can be performed safely in the setting of malignant disease and imparts many of the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.