Endoscopic placement of self-expanding metal stents for treatment of colorectal obstruction with long-term follow-up.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Relief of colorectal obstruction by means of self-expandable metal mesh stents (SEMS) has been suggested for palliation and acute decompression followed by optimization of the patients' general condition prior to definitive surgery. METHODOLOGY: Twelve patients with high operative risk and/or metastatic disease were selected for stenting with a dedicated colorectal partly covered SEMS (Choo Colo-Rectal Stent, Solco Intermed Co., Seoul, Korea). RESULTS: Stent deployment was successful in nine, two of whom had total obstruction. In one a guidewire perforation was treated conservatively. In two patients (one benign stricture, and one rectal cancer) the stents migrated within three weeks. One re-obstructed. In the remaining six patients colonic decompression was achieved, and the stents have been patent until death after median 116 days (33-292 days). CONCLUSION: These results are promising, but data from several centres should be compiled prospectively in a standardized fashion in order to allow for assessment of the method's safety and success rates before randomised trials can be initiated.