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


METHODS
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).


CONCLUSIONS
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.
H:S Bispebjerg Hospital, København. sa07@bbh.hosp.dk
S
S
Adamsen
J
J
Holm
S
S
Meisner
P
P
Møller
L P
LP
Naver
F
F
West
P A
PA
Wille-Jørgensen
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D003108:Colonic Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D003113:Colonoscopy; D005260:Female; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008670:Metals; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D019919:Prosthesis Implantation / Q000295:instrumentation; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D015607:Stents
D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D008670:Metals