Expandable metal stents for benign esophageal obstruction

Extensive experience with expandable metal stents for benign esophageal obstruction is limited. A review of the literature demonstrates a high incidence of complications varying from stent migration to stent-induced trauma leading to fistulization. The most common complication (41%) is that of stent-induced stenosis caused by granulation tissue and fibrosis. Currently, the authors do not recommend the routine use of expandable metal stents for benign obstruction. Each case must be assessed on its own merits and risks. The solution in the future may well have to be new stent configuration and esophagus-friendly materials.