Endoluminal stenting of obstructed colorectal tumours

A series of patients were selected to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a n ew self expanding metallic endoprosthesis in the management of left-sided c olonic obstruction. The aim was to reduce the morbidity and mortality assoc iated with the surgical management of patients with distal colonic obstruct ion. Six patients with complete sigmoid colon obstruction were managed with the Wallstent Enteral Endoprosthesis [Schneider (USA) Inc.]. Four underwent sub sequent elective colonic resection, while two were placed for palliation. Stent placement was successful in all cases with resulting bowel decompress ion and there were no procedural complications. All four patients with rese ctable tumours avoided emergency surgery. Stenting allowed time for medical improvement and staging investigations in this group. Two patients with ad vanced metastatic colonic carcinoma were successfully palliated. We found the Wallstent Enteral Endoprosthesis to be safe and effective in r elieving obstruction in patients with resectable colonic tumours, permittin g elective surgery and avoiding a temporary stoma. It can also be used to p alliate those patients with advanced disease.