Use of self-expandable metallic stents in benign GI diseases.
BACKGROUND
The self-expandable metallic stent is of proven benefit in patients with malignant disease; however, its use in patients with benign disease is not well established. There are few data available regarding long-term complications and outcomes with use of self-expandable metallic stents in benign disease and virtually none regarding attempted removal once the acute problem is resolved.


METHODS
Thirteen patients who had a self-expandable metallic stent placed for benign GI disorders were included in a retrospective analysis. Data collected included patient demographics, indication for procedure, type of stent used, complications, and patient outcomes.


RESULTS
Thirteen patients (7 women, 6 men; mean age 67 years, range 34-84 years) had one or more self-expandable metallic stents placed for benign disease and were followed for a mean of 3.4 years (3 weeks to 10 years). Of the 13 patients, 8 had esophageal stents, 4 biliary stents, and 1 had dual stents placed in the pancreaticobiliary tree. Complications developed in 8 (62%) patients; 4 (31%) ultimately died, either from the primary disease process (3) or from stent-related complications (1).


CONCLUSIONS
Self-expandable metallic stent placement is effective treatment for benign esophageal leaks, providing the stent can be removed. It also may be used in either the esophagus or biliary tree in patients who are poor candidates for surgery and short expected survival. However, a self-expandable metallic stent should not be placed in a patient with a benign GI disorder who has a significant life expectancy and is a good candidate for surgery.
Wadhwa
Raju P
RP
Section of Gastroenterology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington 98101, USA.
Kozarek
Richard A
RA
France
Renee E
RE
Brandabur
John J
JJ
Gluck
Michael
M
Low
Donald E
DE
Traverso
L William
LW
Moonka
Ravi
R
Traverso
William L
WL
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001660:Biliary Tract Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008670:Metals; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015607:Stents / Q000009:adverse effects; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D008670:Metals