Self-Expanding Metal Stents for Esophageal Malignancy: Have Outcomes Changed Over Time?

Efficacy hasn't changed, but stent-related complications have risen in recent years, likely related to increased stent placement after chemotherapy and radiation.

The use of self-expanding metal stents (SEMSs) in the esophagus has grown over the years for both malignant and nonmalignant indications. This technology frequently improves the swallowing function in patients but is associated with complications including recurrent dysphagia, pain, bleeding, and stent migration.

Researchers conducted a retrospective analysis of outcomes over time among 1000 patients who had a SEMS placed for an esophageal malignancy between 1994 and 2017. Results were as follows:

Thirty-one percent of patients developed recurrent dysphagia; this rate did not change appreciably during the study period.
Stent-related complications occurred in 46% of patients and major complications in 21%, which increased in recent years.
Stent …

Reviewing Author

Kenneth R. DeVault, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardPhathom Pharmaceuticals

Grant/Research SupportIronwood Pharmaceuticals

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Education Universe (Co-Editor)

Kenneth R. DeVault, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardPhathom Pharmaceuticals

Grant/Research SupportIronwood Pharmaceuticals

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Education Universe (Co-Editor)

Self-Expanding Metal Stents for Esophageal Malignancy: Have Outcomes Changed Over Time?

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Reviewing Author