Clinical progress and prospects of biodegradable intestinal stents

Anastomotic leakage and stricture after colorectal surgery are severe complications in gastrointestinal surgery, with their incidence rates reaching as high as 5%-30% and 10%-20%, respectively. Traditional self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) have limited clinical applications due to such drawbacks as non-degradability and the requirement for secondary surgical removal. In recent years, biodegradable intestinal stents have become a research hotspot due to their temporary support and degradable properties. Among them, silk fibroin-based stents have stood out for their excellent biocompatibility and mechanical adaptability. This article systematically reviews the clinical indications, material classification, latest advances, clinical challenges, and prospects of degradable intestinal stents, and focuses on discussing the value of silk fibroin-based stents in preventing intestinal anastomotic leakage and stricture.