Endoscopic palliative intubation of inoperable malignant esophagogastric obstruction

In patients with obstructive tumors of the esophagus and who cannot undergo curative surgery, endoscopic palliative intubation can provide a quick relief to dysphagia with subsequent improvement of nutritional status. The technical success rate is as high as 95%. Broncho-esophageal fistulas can be occluded by esophageal prosthesis. The most serious complication is perforation, which incidence is 6 to 8%. The other rare complications are bleeding or aspiration pneumonia. The overall survival rate is only 6 months, but with a significant improvement in the quality of life. Endoscopic intubation is now challenged by laser therapy; their specific indications and advantages are discussed.