Expandable stents for benign esophageal disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Partially covered self-expandable esophageal stents have historically led to significant complications in treating benign esophageal disorders.
• The advent of removable, potentially removable fully covered, and biodegradable esophageal stents has renewed interest in expandable stent use for benign conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current landscape and considerations for using expandable esophageal stents in benign conditions.
• To highlight the potential benefits and risks associated with these devices.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical experience regarding esophageal stent use in benign disorders.
• Analysis of complications associated with different types of esophageal stents.

Main Results:

• Partially covered stents are linked to unacceptable complication rates for benign esophageal diseases.
• Newer stent technologies (removable, biodegradable) present alternatives but still carry risks.

Conclusions:

• Expandable esophageal stents can be a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for select benign esophageal conditions.
• Careful patient selection and consideration of a protocol-based approach are crucial due to the potential for serious complications.