Stents in the small intestine

Stents represent an exciting development in the field of gastroenterology. Their use to maintain luminal patency in the pancreatobiliary system has been well established. Stents have also found a place in maintaining the patency of the esophagus. Recent developments have led to an increasing role for their use to decompress both the small and large intestine. In the small intestine they are often placed to palliate proximal obstruction in the duodenum or the very proximal jejunum resulting from various malignancies. Self-expandable metal stents are an attractive alternative to surgery, especially in patients with compromised performance status, and can be done safely as outpatient procedures. However, one should be aware of the associated risks and complications. With a proper understanding of the principles involved in stent placement one can safely undertake this procedure.