Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 20, 2025

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
Biodegradable Stents for the Treatment of Refractory Benign Esophageal Strictures: Systematic Review and
Daniel Tyč1,2, Nina Vaněčková2, Josef Hanuš1
1Department of Medical Biophysics, Charles University - Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czechia.
Abstract:
Introduction: Refractory benign esophageal strictures (RBES) pose significant clinical challenges. Biodegradable (BD) stents have emerged as alternatives to traditional stenting methods, offering the possibility of reducing the need for multiple procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BD stents in the treatment of RBES.
Methods:
The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases were searched according to the PRISMA statement. Studies that focused on the clinical outcomes of BD stents used in adult patients with RBES were included. Data on technical success and complication rates were analyzed using random-effects models. Efficacy data were analyzed using Kaplan-Meier analysis.
Results:
The review included 15 studies with 241 BD stent implantations. The technical success rates were consistently high in all studies. The median time to restenosis was 21 weeks, with survival rates of 38.4% at 26 weeks and 27.0% at 52 weeks. The rate of complications requiring intervention was relatively low, but significant hyperplasia and pain occurred in 16.4% and 8.8% of the cases, respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed in hyperplasia-related outcomes, which required a detailed subgroup analysis to investigate the underlying causes.
Conclusion:
BD stents provide acceptable results in terms of efficacy and safety for the treatment of RBES. However, the evidence is limited owing to the lack of randomized controlled trials and comparative studies. Future research should focus on these areas to strengthen the clinical evidence regarding BD stents.
.More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

