Stents for colorectal obstruction: Past, present, and future

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices
• Endoscopy

Background:

• Uncovered self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) emerged in the 1990s, revolutionizing endoscopic stenting.
• Innovations in materials and design have broadened the applications for enteral SEMS.
• Enteral stents are currently the primary treatment for palliative care in many cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of lower enteral stents.
• To discuss future developments and expanded clinical uses for enteral stents.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of advancements in enteral stent technology.
• Analysis of current clinical applications and emerging research.

Main Results:

• Enteral SEMS have evolved significantly, with new designs and materials.
• Indications for enteral SEMS have expanded due to technological progress.
• Research is ongoing to extend stent usage beyond palliative purposes.

Conclusions:

• Lower enteral stents represent a rapidly advancing field in gastroenterology.
• Future innovations promise to enhance stent functionality and therapeutic scope.