Self-expanding Metal Stents Research Articles

EP542 - ERCP removal of self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) after 25 months

Abstract This abstract highlights a less-explored complication associated with Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – the delayed removal of pancreatic or biliary stents. The case study involves a 45-year-old woman with a Self-Expandable Metal Stent (SEMS) in place for an extended period of 2 years. Initially, the patient sought medical attention due to episodic epigastric pain, revealing gallstones partially obstructing the common bile duct. An initial ERCP aimed to extract the stones, but a large stone proved challenging to remove. Subsequently, a temporary Fully Covered Self-Expandable Metal Stent (FC-SEMS) was inserted. A follow-up ERCP was planned to remove both the stone and the stent. However, the patient experienced intolerability during the procedure and developed post-ERCP pancreatitis, leading her to decline the second ERCP. In the following year, the patient faced transient common bile duct (CBD) blockage and ascending cholangitis episodes. After thorough discussion with the medical team, she consented to a second ERCP. During this procedure, it was discovered that the SEMS had ingrowth of duodenal mucosa at the proximal end. Successfully removing the SEMS and stone required using a needle knife to dissect the duodenal mucosa of the stent and flipping the stent inside out, as the tissue around the stent was challenging to access. This case underscores the challenges and risks associated with prolonged stent retention. The abstract strongly recommends against leaving the stent in place for an extended duration and advocates for attempting stent removal through ERCP before considering a surgical approach.

Efficacy and safety of a novel polytetrafluoroethylene-coated self-expandable metal stent for distal malignant biliary obstruction.

Stent migration and sludge formation remain significant problems associated with covered self-expandable metal stents (CSEMSs). The EGIS biliary stent fully covered flare type (EGIS biliary stent), a new type of polytetrafluoroethylene-coated self-expandable metal stent with low axial force and an anti-migration system, was developed to overcome these disadvantages. We conducted this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this stent in comparison with conventional CSEMS (c-CSEMS). We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer who received initial CSEMS for distal malignant biliary obstruction. The primary outcome was time to recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO). Secondary outcomes included technical success rate, functional success rate, stent-related adverse events, causes of RBO, and re-intervention. A total of 40 patients were included (EGIS group: 20; c-CSEMS group: 20). The technical and functional success rates were similar between the two groups. Stent-related adverse event rates (20% vs. 15%, p > 0.99) and overall RBO rates (56% vs. 50%, p > 0.99) were not significantly different between the two groups. Stent migration was the most common cause of RBO in the EGIS group, while stent occlusion was in the c-CSEMS group. The median time to RBO (102 vs. 434 days, p = 0.10) was not significantly different between the two groups. Endoscopic transpapillary re-intervention was successful in most patients in both groups. The EGIS biliary stent was not associated with a longer time to RBO compared to c-CSEMS. Further improvements, especially against stent migration, are needed to improve its efficacy.

474. SELF EXPANDABLE METAL STENT AS A BRIDGE TO RESECTION IN ESOPHAGEAL CANCER – A NATIONAL REGISTER ANALYSIS ON MORTALITY

Abstract Background Patients with esophageal cancer commonly present with malnutrition and weight loss due to dysphagia. Self Expandable Metal Stent (SEMS) have been used to relieve dysphagia and optimize nutrition prior to surgery and during neoadjuvant treatment. However, SEMS is associated with various complications and studies have further found a decreased survival in patients preoperatively treated with SEMS. The aim of the study was to investigate whether SEMS as a bridge to resection has an impact on mortality. Methods All patients with esophageal cancer in the Swedish National Register for Esophageal and Gastric cancer (NREV) between 2006 and 2018 were included. Patient data, tumor and treatment characteristics were assessed. Resected patients who received SEMS preoperatively were compared to patients who did not receive SEMS with regard to patient, tumor and treatment characteristics. Overall survival was explored by multivariable Cox regression models and adjusted for age, ASA score, preoperative BMI, clinical T-stage and neoadjuvant chemo- or chemoradiotherapy. Primary outcome was mortality. Results In total, 1841 resected patients with esophageal cancer and curative intent were identified. Of these, 83 patients received SEMS as a bridge to resection. T-stage was more advanced in patients with SEMS than those without SEMS, but there was no difference in N-stage, ASA-score or preoperative BMI. Early mortality (<90 days) and total mortality was higher in the SEMS group (12.4% vs 5.3%, p=0.002 and 77.1 % vs 58.2%, p<0.001 respectively. Mean follow-up time was 45 months for the all included patients. SEMS was an independent predictor of earlier death in multivariable analysis (Hazard Ratio 1,710; CI 95% 1,27-2,23; p=<0,001). Conclusion SEMS as a bridge to resection in the treatment of esophageal cancer seem to be associated with poor outcome with regard to both early and late mortality.

394. ESOPHAGEAL STENTING IN ESOPHAGEAL CANCER PATIENTS WITH PERFORATION AND FISTULA

Abstract Background Esophageal perforation and fistula to the respiratory system are serious problems in esophageal cancer patients. Esophageal self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement has become a popular treatment for this problem. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with clinical outcomes following the placement of a SEMS in esophageal cancer patients with perforation and fistula. Methods Data from 43 esophageal cancer patients with perforation and fistula who underwent esophageal SEMS placement at Prince of Songkla University Hospital between January 2008 and June 2023 were reviewed. Statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and Kaplan-Meier methods, were employed for comparisons and survival calculations. Results The SEMS location was the middle esophagus in 76.8% and 11.6% in each of the lower and upper esophagus. The disease was stage IV in 62.8% and stage III in 37.2%. 46.5% had a history of chemoradiotherapy. The perforation and fistula penetrated into the left bronchus in 39.5%, right bronchus 18.6%, trachea 16.3%, lung 14% and mediastinum 11.6%. The SEMS technique was successful in all patients. The median stent patency was 38.5 days. Tumor overgrowth was the major cause of stent obstruction. The median overall survival was 40 days. Initial success of the SEMS placement was the only predictor of better survival. Conclusion Esophageal SEMS placement in esophageal cancer perforation and fistula cases is technically uncomplicated. Although these advanced esophageal cancer patients had a poor prognosis, the esophageal SEMS provided symptom relief and improved quality of life for their remaining time.

Use of the subcutaneous ureteral bypass device and urethral stenting for treatment of malignant urinary outflow tract obstructions in cats.

The aim of this study was to describe the technical success and outcomes of ureteral and urethral decompression using the subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device and transurethral self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) as a palliative treatment option for feline malignant urinary outflow tract obstructions. A retrospective study was conducted of 14 cats with ureteral and/or urethral obstructions secondary to diagnosed or suspected transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). In all cats, a SUB device and/or a SEMS was placed to relieve the obstruction(s). Group 1 consisted of cats with ureteral obstructions, with or without concurrent urethral obstructions, and group 2 consisted of cats with only urethral obstructions. Eight cats were included in group 1 (seven with concurrent urethral obstructions) and six cats were included in group 2. TCC was confirmed in 8/14 cats. Repeat urethral obstruction due to tumor in growth occurred in 6/13 (46%) cats with a SEMS, and no cats developed recurrent ureteral obstructions after placement of the SUB device. Three cats had additional covered stents placed after urethral re-obstruction. The median survival time (MST) from the time of device placement was 52 days in group 1 (mean 92; range 14-349) and 80 days in group 2 (mean 96; range 7-209). The MST from the time of mass identification of the cats that did and did not receive adjunctive therapy was 349 days (mean 358; range 124-602) and 43 days (mean 113; range 14-423), respectively. The use of bypass devices for feline malignant urinary outflow tract obstructions is a viable option to provide immediate renal and urinary bladder decompression. TCC in cats is locally aggressive and can result in urethral re-obstruction, prompting consideration for placing a covered urethral stent. The use of adjunctive therapies for malignant neoplasia should be considered to improve overall survival once the obstruction has been relieved.

Prophylactic endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder stenting to prevent acute cholecystitis induced after metallic stent placement for malignant biliary strictures: a retrospective study in Japan.

Endoscopic biliary drainage using self-expandable metallic stents (SEMSs) for malignant biliary strictures occasionally induces acute cholecystitis (AC). This study evaluated the efficacy of prophylactic gallbladder stents (GBS) during SEMS placement. Among 158 patients who underwent SEMS placement for malignant biliary strictures between January 2018 and March 2023, 30 patients who attempted to undergo prophylactic GBS placement before SEMS placement were included. Technical success was achieved in 21 cases (70.0%). The mean diameter of the cystic duct was more significant in the successful cases (6.5 mm vs. 3.7 mm, p<0.05). Adverse events occurred for 7 patients (23.3%: acute pancreatitis in 7; non-obstructive cholangitis in 1; perforation of the cystic duct in 1 with an overlap), all of which improved with conservative treatment. No patients developed AC when the GBS placement was successful, whereas 25 of the 128 patients (19.5%) without a prophylactic GBS developed AC during the median follow-up period of 357 days (p=0.043). In the multivariable analysis, GBS placement was a significant factor in preventing AC (hazard ratio, 0.61; 95% confidence interval, 0.37-0.99; p=0.045). GBS may contribute to the prevention of AC after SEMS placement for malignant biliary strictures.

275. SAFETY AND TREATMENT RESULTS OF SELF-EXPANDABLE METAL STENT (SEMS) PLACEMENT FOR ESOPHAGEAL DISEASE

Abstract Background Self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement for esophageal strictures and fistulas caused by malignant tumors has been reported from various institutions as a relatively minimally invasive and safe palliative treatment. SEMS placement is often selected for cancer-bearing patients whose general condition has already deteriorated, but there are many unknowns regarding the risks and benefits of placement. Methods We retrospectively examined swallowing scores, oral intake status, complications and prognosis for 41 cancer-bearing patients who underwent SEMS placement in our hospital from 2011 to 2023. Results There were 29 men and 12 women, with a median age of 77 years. The types of cancer were esophageal cancer / gastric cancer / lung cancer / others in 22/12/3/4 cases, respectively. The reason for stent placement was stricture / fistula in 39/2 cases. Stent placement was successful in 40 cases (97.6%), and complications were observed in 7 cases (17.1%), including bleeding, displacement, and aspiration pneumonia in 2, 3, and 2 cases, respectively. Three patients underwent second stent placement for restenosis, and the median time to restenosis was 57 days. After stent placement, dysphagia score improved in 30 cases (78.9%). After stent placement 35 patients (87.5%) chose palliative treatment and the median survival time (MST) was 1.7 months (0.2-10.8). Comparing patients with PS≦2 and PS≧3 using performance status (PS) at the time of stent placement, patients with PS≦2 significantly ate more after stent placement (median amount of oral intake; 80 % vs. 40%, p=0.037), and the survival period was longer (MST; 3.1 months vs. 1.3 months, p=0.0018). Univariate analysis on the risk of complications by stent placement showed that chemotherapy history, radiotherapy history, and pretreatment dysphagia score were not risk factors, but poor PS (≥3) was the only significant risk factor (Odds ratio: 12.5, 95% CI:1.3-117, p=0.027). Conclusion Esophageal stents are less invasive treatment than any other palliative methods, like esophageal bypass or radiation therapy for patients who strongly desire oral intake. However in patients with poor general condition the risk of complications is high and the survival period is not long, so it should be performed after fully explaining the risks and benefits.

Efficacy of hemostasis by gastroduodenal covered metal stent placement for hemorrhagic duodenal stenosis due to pancreatobiliary cancer invasion: a retrospective study.

Advanced pancreatic and biliary tract cancers can invade the duodenum and cause duodenal hemorrhagic stenosis. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of covered self-expandable metal stents in the treatment of cancer-related duodenal hemorrhage with stenosis. Between January 2014 and December 2016, metal stents were placed in 51 patients with duodenal stenosis. Among these patients, a self-expandable covered metal stent was endoscopically placed in 10 patients with hemorrhagic duodenal stenosis caused by pancreatobiliary cancer progression. We retrospectively analyzed the therapeutic efficacy of the stents by evaluating the technical and clinical success rates based on successful stent placement, degree of oral intake, hemostasis, stent patency, and overall survival. The technical and clinical success rates were 100%. All 10 patients achieved a gastric outlet obstruction scoring system score of three within two weeks after the procedure and had no recurrence of melena. The median stent patency duration and overall survival after stent placement were 52 days (range, 20-220 days) and 66.5 days (range, 31-220 days), respectively. Endoscopic placement of a covered metal stent for hemorrhagic duodenal stenosis associated with pancreatic or biliary tract cancer resulted in duodenal hemostasis, recanalization, and improved quality of life.

Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Different Stent Types for Pancreatic Fluid Collections: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

Drainage of pancreatic fluid collections (PFCs) is required in select cases including infected or symptomatic collections. In this network meta-analysis, we have compared lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS), fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMS), and double-pigtail stents (DPS) to identify the most useful stent type in the management of PFCs. We reviewed several databases to identify studies that compared DPS or FCSEMS with LAMS and the ones which compared DPS with FCSEMS for the treatment of PFCs. Our outcomes of interest were clinical success, adverse events, technical success, recurrence of PFCs, and procedure duration. Random effects model and frequentist approach were used for statistical analysis. We included 28 studies with 2974 patients. Rate of clinical success was significantly lower with DPS compared to LAMS, OR (95% CI): 0.43 (0.32, 0.59). Rate of recurrence was higher with DPS compared to LAMS, OR (95% CI): 2.06 (1.19, 3.57). We found no significant difference in rate of adverse events between groups. Rate of technical success was higher for FCSEMS compared to LAMS. Procedure duration was significantly shorter for LAMS compared to DPS and FCSEMS. Based on frequentist approach, LAMS was found to be superior to DPS and FCSEMS in achieving higher clinical success, lower rate of adverse events and recurrence, and shorter procedure time. This network meta-analysis demonstrates the superiority of LAMS over DPS and FCSEMS in the management of PFCs in achieving a higher clinical success, shorter procedure time, and lower rate of recurrence. Some of the analyses are not adequately powered to make firm conclusions, and future large multicenter RCTs are required to further evaluate this issue.

Safety and Efficacy of Covered Self-Expandable Metallic Stent for Choledochojejunal Anastomotic Stricture: A Multi-Center Retrospective Cohort Study.

Benign choledochojejunal anastomotic stricture (CJS) is a complication of pancreaticoduodenectomy and choledochojejunostomy. Typically managed with endoscopic balloon dilatation, CJS has a high recurrence rate. Covered metallic stent (CMS) placement is a potential alternative; however, a comprehensive evaluation is lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment outcomes of CMS placement in patients with CJS. We retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent balloon dilation via endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography using a double-balloon endoscope for CJS between October 2010 and October 2023. The study outcomes included technical and clinical success rates, adverse event rates, choledochojejunal anastomotic stricture recurrence rates, and time to recurrence for balloon dilation and CMS treatment for CJS. There were 43 patients, 55 procedures (40 balloon dilation and 15 CMS placement). The technical and clinical success rates were 100% for both treatments. Recurrence of CJS was observed in 35% (14/40) of the patients in the balloon dilation group. The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the balloon dilation group than in the CMS group (35% vs. 0%, p = 0.006). The time to CJS recurrence was significantly shorter in the balloon dilation group than in the covered metallic stent group (NR vs. NR, p = 0.03). Placement of CMS for treating patients with CJS was demonstrated to be an effective and safe method with a lower recurrence rate than balloon dilation.

A New Self-Expandable Metallic Stent with Low Axial Force and a High Axial Force Zero-Border Shows a Very Low Perforation Rate in Malignant Colorectal Obstruction: A Japanese Multicenter Prospective Study.

Background: Recently, there has been a significant increase in the utilization of self-expandable metallic stents (SEMSs) for treating malignant colorectal obstructions through colorectal stenting. The mechanical properties of SEMSs are usually considered to affect clinical outcomes of patients with malignant colorectal obstructions. Methods: This single-arm, prospective, multicenter study of SEMS with a lower axial force and high axial force zero-border included 200 patients with malignant colorectal obstruction. Technical and clinical success, stent patency, and adverse events associated with SEMS placement were evaluated. Results: One patient was excluded, and 199 patients were evaluated. The treatment intent was bridge-to-surgery in 129 and palliation in 70 patients. Technical and clinical success rates were 99.5% and 97.0%, respectively. The percentage of the ColoRectal Obstruction Scoring System scores of 3 or higher improved significantly from 19.2% before placement to 93.9% after placement. Clinical success was not achieved in five patients due to insufficient stent expansion in four patients and stent occlusion in one patient. Only one patient underwent emergency surgery for perforation of the proximal colon, far from where the stent was placed; the rescue procedure was not performed, despite no improvement in proximal dilatation due to insufficient stent expansion. Among the palliation cohort, 15 patients received chemotherapy, including molecular-targeted agents such as bevacizumab. There were no fatal cases related to stent placement. Conclusions: For management of malignant colorectal obstruction, this newly developed SEMS with low axial force and a high axial force zero-border showed high technical and clinical success rates, and an extremely low perforation rate (0.5%).

Impact of self-expanding metal stents on long-term survival outcomes as a bridge to surgery in patients with colon cancer obstruction: Current state and future prospects.

Since self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) were first introduced in acute colon cancer obstruction, the increased rate of primary anastomosis and improved quality of life following SEMS placement have been clearly shown. However, it was demonstrated that SEMS are associated with higher recurrence rates. Although several trials have shown that overall and disease-free survival in patients following SEMS placement is similar with patients undergoing emergency surgery, obstruction and a high incidence of recurrence imposed many concerns. The optimal time interval from SEMS to surgery is still a matter of debate. Some studies have recommended a time interval of ~2 weeks between SEMS insertion and elective surgery. A prolonged interval of time from SEMS insertion to elective surgery and the administration of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been proposed. SEMS-NAC might have advantages for improving the surgical and long-term survival outcomes of patients with acute colon cancer obstruction, which is an optional approach in the management of acute colon cancer obstruction.

Fully-Covered Self-Expandable Metal Stent for Hepaticojejunostomy Anastomotic Stricture After Living Donor Liver Transplantation: A Case Series

We prospectively evaluated 3 cases regarding the usefulness of fully-covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) for hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic stricture (HAS) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), which could not be resolved with conventional treatment using a plastic stent. All patients underwent LDLT with Roux-en-Y reconstruction; therefore, a short-type double-balloon enteroscope was used for the endoscopic procedures. HAS was observed on enteroscopic view of endoscopy in patients 1 and 2, and cholangiography revealed dilatation of the intrahepatic bile duct. The FCSEMS was successfully placed without the report of adverse events. The FCSEMS was removed after 16 weeks, and the HAS improved in both patients. In addition, stone clearance was also achieved in patient 2. On the other hand, FCSEMS was not placed in patient 3 because there was no indication of FCSEMS placement due to the multiple segmental biliary strictures (pruned-tree appearance on cholangiography). Subsequent deceased-donor liver transplantation confirmed recurrent primary sclerosing cholangitis. In this case, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) was not performed prior to cholangiography to rule out PSC recurrence. FCSEMS placement may be effective and safe for HAS after LDLT, which is not resolved with conventional treatment using a plastic stent. MRCP should be used to identify HAS prior to invasive cholangiography.

Efficacy and safety of self-expandable metallic stents for management of benign gastric outlet obstruction-A prospective study.

We aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) insertion for managing patients with benign gastric outlet obstruction (GOO). This prospective interventional study included 23 patients. All consecutive treatment-naïve symptomatic patients with benign GOO were recruited. Fully covered SEMS were deployed across the stricture under fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance. Technical success, clinical success and sustained treatment response (STR) were assessed. Technical success was defined as the successful deployment of SEMS at the desired anatomic location. Clinical success was defined as the resolution of symptoms and an increase in Gastric Outlet Obstruction Scoring System (GOOSS) of at least 1 point from the baseline score on Day 7. STR was assessed at four and eightweeks post stent removal in patients who had a response at week four. Factors associated with stent migration and non-response at week four were also assessed. The median age of the study population was 30years (range 19-65years). Males constituted 65.22%. Most patients presented with vomiting (100%) and abdominal pain (95.65%). Peptic stricture was most common etiology for GOO (60.9%) followed by tubercular (26.1%) and corrosive (13%). Most common site of obstruction was junction of first and second part of duodenum (69.57%) followed by pyloric (30.43%). Median length of stricture was 2cm (range 1.5-4). Technical success was achieved in all 23 patients (100%). Clinical success was achieved in 21 patients (91.3%). Response at Day 28 was seen in 20 patients (86.95%). Eighteen of 20 (90%) patients who had a response at week four had STR at week four and week eight after stent removal. Stent migration occurred in five (21.7%) patients. On univariate analysis, stricture length, calibre and stent length were found to predict migration. Fully covered SEMS was an effective and safe management modality in patients with benign GOO. Stent migration remains a troublesome disadvantage.

Unraveling the spectrum of airway complications following lung transplantation: a comprehensive overview.

This review delves into the intricate landscape of airway complications post lung transplantation. With the rising prevalence of end-stage lung disease and the increasing number of lung transplantation worldwide, understanding and effectively managing airway complications are crucial. Given the nuanced nature of these complications and the array of treatment options available, this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how to identify, classify, mitigate risk factors for, and manage these complications. Several donor, recipient, and surgical risk factors are associated with the increased risk of airway complications. In managing these complications, bronchoscopic interventions, notably balloon dilation and stenting, are pivotal. Although self-expanding metallic stents offer versatility, silicone stents are preferred in certain scenarios for their durability. Emerging techniques such as biodegradable stents and advancing imaging modalities show promise in mitigating complications and improving outcomes. These findings underscore the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and personalized treatment algorithms in managing airway complications post lung transplantation. By elucidating specific indications and complications of treatment modalities, this review serves as a valuable resource for optimally managing airway complications. Ongoing research into novel interventions holds promise for further enhancing outcomes in this challenging clinical setting.

Palliative use of self-expanding metal stents in initially anticancer treatment-intolerant patients with esophageal cancer

BackgroundThe post-insertion clinical course of esophageal self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) in initially frail patients with esophageal carcinoma (EC) with dysphagia remains unclear. This study aimed to assess dysphagia improvement and evaluate prognosis in initially frail patients with advanced EC following SEMS insertion.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed EC patients with EC who underwent esophageal SEMS insertion at our institution between January 2014 and March 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (ECOG PS) ≥ 3 or ECOG PS 2 for individuals aged ≥ 75 years and recommendation for best supportive care by a multidisciplinary team.ResultsForty-six patients met the inclusion criteria. Among them, 37 patients (80.4%) were ≥ 75 years old, and 21 patients (45.7%) exhibited ECOG PS 3 or 4. Dysphagia score (DS) ≥ 3 was observed in 27 patients (58.7%). All esophageal SEMS insertions were successfully completed. Post-procedure, there were two fatal cases of aspiration pneumonia and one perforation incident. DS improved to ≤ 1 in 25 patients (54.3%), with multivariate analysis indicating DS 3–4 and Glasgow Prognostic Score (GPS) 1–2 as negative predictive factors. The median overall survival was 4.1 months (95% confidence interval 1.8–6.5).ConclusionsEsophageal SEMS insertion effectively alleviated dysphagia in initially frail EC patients, yet prognosis remained poor, with occurrences of some fatal adverse events. Careful selection of candidates for esophageal SEMS insertions is crucial in this demographic, particularly considering the challenges in improving dysphagia for patients with DS 3–4 and GPS 1–2.

A Bridge to Curative Surgery for Obstructive Colorectal Cancer: Self-expandable Metallic Stent Versus Decompression Tube.

Self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement is becoming the standard bridge-to-surgery (BTS) strategy for potentially curable left-sided obstructive colorectal cancer (OCRC). The study objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of SEMS placement as a BTS strategy for both right- and left-sided OCRC. We retrospectively compared the short- and long-term outcomes of patients with OCRC who underwent placement of a SEMS versus a trans-nasal/anal decompression tube (DCT). The cohort comprised 57 patients with stage II/III right-sided OCRC (DCT, n=20; SEMS, n=8) or left-sided OCRC (DCT, n=9; SEMS, n=20). The short-term outcomes were the incidence of postoperative complications, rate of laparoscopic surgery, rate of stoma construction, and postoperative hospital stay; long-term outcomes were the 3-year overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS). The SEMS group had a higher rate of laparoscopic surgery (85.7% vs. 6.9%, p<0.001), lower rate of stoma construction (10.7% vs. 34.5%, p=0.03), and shorter postoperative hospital stay (14 vs. 17 days, p=0.04) than the DCT group. Both groups had a similar incidence of postoperative complications. The 3-year OS and RFS were also similar in the DCT and SEMS groups for both right-sided OCRC (OS, 75.0% vs. 87.5%, HR=1.51, 95% CI=0.22-10.25, p=0.7; RFS, 65.0% vs. 50.0%, HR=0.97, 95% CI=0.28-3.36, p=0.9) and left-sided OCRC (OS, 88.8% vs. 90.0%, HR=1.19, 95% CI=0.10-14.29, p=0.9; RFS, 77.8% vs. 85.0%, HR=1.03, 95% CI=0.16-6.5, p=0.9). SEMS placement is a reasonable BTS strategy for left- and right-sided OCRC that achieves comparable short- and long-term outcomes to DCT insertion.

Evaluating no fixation, endoscopic suture fixation, and an over-the-scope clip for anchoring fully covered self-expanding metal stents in benign upper gastrointestinal conditions: a comparative multicenter international study (With Video)

Fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) are widely used in benign upper gastrointestinal (GI) conditions, but stent migration remains a limitation. An over-the-scope clip (OTSC) device (Stentfix {SF], Ovesco Endoscopy) for stent anchoring has recently been developed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of OTSC fixation on FCSEMS migration rate. In this retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent FCSEMS placement for benign upper GI conditions from January 2011 to October 2022 at 16 centers, the primary outcome was rate of stent migration. The secondary outcomes were clinical success and adverse events. A total of 311 (no fixation [NF] 122, SF 94, endoscopic suturing [ES] 95) patients underwent 316 stenting procedures. Compared with the NF group (n= 49, 39%), the rates of stent migration were significantly lower in the SF (n= 16, 17%, P= .001) and ES (n= 23, 24%, P= .01) groups. The rates of stent migration were not different between the SF and ES groups (P= .2). On multivariate analysis, SF (odds ratio [OR], 0.34, 95% CI, 0.17-0.70, P< .01) and ES (OR, 0.46, 95% CI, 0.23-0.91; P= .02) were independently associated with decreased risk of stent migration. Compared with the NF group (n= 64; 52%), there were higher rates of clinical success in the SF (n= 64; 68%; P= .03) and ES (n= 66; 69%; P= .02) groups. There was no significant difference in the rates of adverse events among the 3 groups. Stent fixation using OTSCs is safe and effective at preventing stent migration and may also result in improved clinical response.

Immediate puncture of a dislocated partially covered self-expandable metal stent in endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy for prevention ofbile leakage.

Immediate puncture of a dislocated partially covered self-expandable metal stent in endoscopic ultrasound-guided hepaticogastrostomy for prevention ofbile leakage.

Proximal Stent Migration of Fully Covered Self-Expandable Metal Stent following Side-by-Side Deployment in the Patient with Klatskin Tumor: A Case Report

Malignant hilar biliary obstruction (MHBO) is a malignant tumor that causes biliary stenosis and bile drainage problems, which can lead to elevated liver enzymes and jaundice. Endoscopic biliary drainage performed to treat MHBO is essential to improve treatment, survival rate, and patients’ quality of life. However, the biliary drainage in MHBO is technically challenging because of its anatomical complexity, and the successful palliation of cholestasis is less frequent in MHBO than in distal biliary obstruction. In this article, we report a case of proximal stent migration of fully covered self-expandable metal stent following side-by-side deployment in the patient with Klatskin tumor. It is expected that it will be of great help if various preventive methods to reduce stent migration are developed in the future.