Ectopic pancreatic tissue presenting as submucosal gastric mass

Background: Ectopic pancreas is pancreatic tissue found outside its usual anatomic location without connection to the normal pancreas. We describe the presentation and minimally invasive management of four patients with ectopic pancreatic tissue in the stomach. Methods: Data were collected from a retrospective chart review of four patients undergoing laparoscopic resection of gastric pancreatic rests. Results: Four patients underwent laparoscopic resection of gastric pancreatic tissue. All patients were discharged on postoperative day 3. No complications developed. Conclusion: Laparoscopic gastric wedge resection is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic pancreatic rests located in the stomach.