[Endoscopic treatment of colorectal obstruction with self-expandable metal endoprosthesis]

Relief of colo-rectal 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. 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). 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 (33-175 days, four patients) or are still patent (follow-up 35-80 days). 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 randomized trials can be initiated.