Esophageal stents: Malignancy

Abstract

Self-expandable esophageal stents can be composed of metal or plastic. These devices are effective for the relief of malignant dysphagia and closure of malignant tracheoesophageal fistula. Complications of esophageal stents include migration, which is most common with fully covered stents and plastic stents, perforation, fistula formation, bleeding, and chest pain. Stents placed across the gastroesophageal junction can also lead to reflux and aspiration. Recurrent dysphagia occurs in up to 30% but almost always can be managed endoscopically. This chapter will review the outcomes following placement of self-expandable stents in the treatment of esophageal malignancy.