Colonic stent-related complications and their management

Since its introduction in the early 1990s, the self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) has been increasingly used for the management of malignant colorectal obstruction, not only as a palliative method but also as a preoperative treatment in surgical candidates. However, more recently, concerns have been raised over stent complication rates. Early complications include pain, perforation, and rectal bleeding, and late complications include stent migration and stent obstruction. With the increasing use of SEMS for treatment, physicians need to be more aware of complications occurring after the placement of these stents. This review covers the technical considerations and management of complications after colonic stenting.