Stenting

Stenting is the endoscopic procedure performed either with gastroscopy or colonoscopy and is the procedure of choice for the treatment of narrowing of the digestive tract from malignant neoplasms of the upper or lower digestive tract. It is also used occasionally for the treatment of benign strictures of the digestive tract.

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What are the indications for surgery?

The most common indication is narrowing of the digestive tract from advanced cancerous lesions for which surgical removal is not indicated or is considered too high risk for the patient. It is most commonly performed for narrowing of the lumen of the oesophagus or small intestine (12-duodenum) and for obstructive lesions of the lower digestive tract (colon). Usually these patients are on palliative chemotherapy and the aim of the operation is to improve the patient's lifestyle and extend his/her life expectancy.

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What preparation is needed for the surgery?

Intraprosthesis placement is performed in a hospital setting and requires the use of radiology equipment that takes X-rays during the procedure.

Patient preparation is the same as for gastroscopy or colonoscopy.

You should inform the doctor about any medications you are taking (e.g. blood thinners) so that the doctor can advise you if you need to stop taking them.The doctor will explain the nature of the examination and ask you to sign the consent form for the procedure.

Are there any risks from the test?

The fitting of inlays must always be carried out by suitably trained personnel. The most common complications are perforation, bleeding, and stent migration which may require surgical treatment.