Initial results of a new procedure for treatment of malignant obstruction of the left colon.
OBJECTIVE
This study was undertaken to analyze the results obtained in 38 unselected patients using a new and original procedure for treatment of malignant obstructions of the left colon.


METHODS
This procedure involves three phases: 1) resolution of the obstruction by means of a stent placed at the site of the tumor; 2) recovery of the general state of the patient, study of the extent of disease, and mechanical preparation of the colon; 3) regulated and final surgery (if this is not suitable, the stent may be used as definitive palliative treatment).


RESULTS
In 35 patients (92 percent), the obstruction was resolved with the stent. In 22 patients the three phases were completed, and in 13 patients the stent constituted definitive palliative treatment. Only one patient (2.6 percent) died after resection of the tumor.


CONCLUSIONS
This procedure offers a new, safe, and efficacious option for treatment of neoplastic colorectal obstructions.
Tejero
E
E
Department of Surgery, University of Zaragoza, Hospital Lozano Blesa, Spain.
Fernández-Lobato
R
R
Mainar
A
A
Montes
C
C
Pinto
I
I
Fernández
L
L
Jorge
E
E
Lozano
R
R
D000230:Adenocarcinoma / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D003113:Colonoscopy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000209:etiology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009367:Neoplasm Staging; D010166:Palliative Care; D018579:Patient Selection; D015641:Radiography, Interventional / Q000379:methods*; D015607:Stents