Metal stents for malignant colorectal obstruction

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Interventional Endoscopy

Background:

• Malignant colonic obstruction affects 7-25% of colorectal cancer patients, often requiring emergency laparotomy with high morbidity and mortality.
• Existing surgical interventions for colonic obstruction carry significant risks, necessitating exploration of alternative, less invasive treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate colorectal stenting as an alternative endoscopic method for relieving acute colonic obstruction.
• To assess the efficacy and safety of colorectal stenting as a palliative measure and a bridge to surgery.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature data on colorectal stenting for malignant colonic obstruction over the past decade.
• Analysis of technical and clinical success rates, complication profiles, and impact on patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• Colorectal stenting demonstrated technical and clinical success rates of 80-100% for acute colonic obstruction.
• The procedure is effective for both distal and ascending colon lesions, with minor complications including pain and bleeding, and recognized risks like migration and perforation.
• Stenting can avoid colostomy, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the quality of life for patients with advanced colorectal cancer.

Conclusions:

• Colorectal stenting is a safe and effective endoscopic procedure for managing malignant colonic obstruction.
• It serves as a valuable alternative to emergency laparotomy, offering palliative benefits and facilitating surgical treatment while improving patient outcomes.