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Technology insight: Enteral stenting and new technology.
1Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Nature Clinical Practice. Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|November 3, 2005
Summary
Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) offer effective palliation for malignant gastrointestinal obstruction. These enteral stents are a cost-effective alternative to surgery, improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Devices
- Oncology
Background:
- Malignant luminal obstruction frequently requires intervention.
- Surgical bypass can be invasive and associated with significant morbidity.
- Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) have emerged as a viable endoscopic treatment option.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current advancements in self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) technology for gastrointestinal applications.
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of enteral SEMS in managing malignant luminal obstructions.
- To provide an overview of SEMS as an alternative to surgical palliation.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on SEMS technology and clinical applications.
- Analysis of outcomes data from studies on SEMS placement in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract.
- Assessment of cost-effectiveness data for enteral SEMS.
Main Results:
- SEMS are accepted for palliation of malignant gastric-outlet obstruction in the upper GI tract.
- In the colon, SEMS serve to avoid colostomy and act as a bridge to surgery for left-sided obstructions.
- Enteral SEMS demonstrate cost-effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are a valuable tool for relieving malignant gastrointestinal obstructions.
- SEMS offer a less invasive and potentially more cost-effective alternative to surgical palliation.
- Continued advancements in stent technology are expected to further improve patient outcomes.