Expandable metal stents for benign biliary disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Interventional Endoscopy
• Biliary Tract Diseases

Background:

• Benign biliary diseases (BBD) encompass benign biliary strictures (BBS), choledocholithiasis, and leaks.
• BBS etiologies include postoperative injury, anastomotic strictures, chronic pancreatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and gallstone disease.
• Treatment modalities for BBD involve surgical, percutaneous, and endoscopic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the published experience with self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) in treating benign biliary diseases.
• To define the current role and limitations of SEMS in the management of benign biliary strictures and leaks.

Main Methods:

• Review of published literature on the use of SEMS for benign biliary diseases.
• Analysis of outcomes and complications associated with different types of SEMS (uncovered, partially covered, fully covered).

Main Results:

• SEMS have demonstrated success in resolving benign biliary strictures and leaks.
• Complications associated with SEMS implantation can limit their therapeutic application.
• Different SEMS configurations show varying degrees of efficacy and safety.

Conclusions:

• SEMS represent a viable endoscopic option for managing certain benign biliary diseases.
• Further research is needed to optimize SEMS use and mitigate associated complications.
• The role of SEMS in benign biliary disease treatment is evolving, balancing efficacy with safety concerns.