Enterocolic fistula due to a rectal stent: Case report and literature review

Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are successfully being used to acutely relieve obstructing colorectal cancers; yet, their use does not come without complications.

We present a case in which a patient with a recurrent obstructing sigmoid carcinoma underwent colonic stenting for acute decompression. Two months after stent placement, an enterocolic fistula formed from erosion of the upper end of the stent.

An extensive literature review revealed that fistula formation, as a complication of stent placement, is rarely reported. Presentation of the case is followed by a review of complications that may arise following SEMS placement, with a focus on enterocolic fistulae. To our knowledge, this work provides the most extensive review of the subject to date.

SEMS provide an effective, safe, and less invasive option for patients when used in the appropriate clinical context. Further reports of enterocolic fistulae as a complication of SEMS placement are necessary in order to better understand this potential adverse event.