Use of Stents in Treatment of Benign and Malignant Esophageal Disease

A new clinical guideline from the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Sponsoring Organization: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE)

Target Audience: Gastroenterologists

Background and Objective: The use of partially or fully covered self-expanding metal stents (SEMSs) has greatly changed management strategies for both malignant and benign esophageal strictures. In its new evidence-based consensus guideline for esophageal stent use, ESGE graded the following recommendations as strong.

Key Recommendations

For malignant esophageal stricture, use SEMS placement over thermal ablation or surgical bypass and do not use plastic non-expandable or expandable stents.
If a longer life expectancy is anticipated, esophageal brachytherapy can be used as an alternative or addition to SEMS placement.
SEMS placement…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors