Gastroduodenal obstruction is the most common complication of advanced distal gastric, periampullary, or duodenal malignancy. The
majority of cases occur as a pre-terminal adverse event in the above malignancies, with poor prognosis and a median survival of 3 to 6
months. Patients often suffer from intractable nausea, vomiting, and severe weight loss. The role of endoscopic management of this
condition has significantly changed in the last 20 years. As early as 1992, metallic stents were used to treat malignant gastroduodenal obstruction . Metal stents are used more and more for the palliative treatment
of malignant gastroduodenal obstruction because of their safety and effectiveness. Enteral stenting has a success rate similar to surgery, is
associated with shorter time before a patient can resume food intake,and reduces hospital stay and costs. However, stent use is
complicated by several thorny issues, including recurrent obstruction as a result of progressive tumor ingrowth or overgrowth and
stent migration. Many attempts have been made to solve these problems). This article reviews the characteristics, differences,
and treatment options of the available gastroduodenal Self-Expandable Metallic Stents (SEMS).
Last date updated on September, 2024