Endoscopic stenting for colorectal cancer. Lessons learned from a 15-year experience

Goal: The aim of our prospective study was to analyze the results of endoscopic stenting to treat obstruction due to colorectal cancer and complications after colorectal resection for cancer. Background: Endoscopic stenting for obstructing colorectal cancer has become a common place in clinical practice. However, there is a 2% to 5% risk of bowel perforation, and a percentage of technical failure of 2% to 10%. Materials and Methods: In a 15-year period (August, 1999 to December, 2013), 153 patients with colorectal cancer had endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metal stent for treatment of an obstructing colorectal cancer (133 patients) or for treatment of complications after colorectal resection for cancer (20 patients). They were prospectively evaluated in a database and they form the basis of this report. Results: There was no case of mortality or major morbidity. Overall technical success was 94.8%. After introducing the use of a pediatric nasogastroscope to pass the obstruction (71 patients), technical success was 100%. Complications in patients in whom the stent was left in place during the follow-up were frequent, requiring a close observation. We had 20 patients with fecal obstruction, 4 cases of stent dislodgment, and 8 cases of obstruction from ingrowth of the tumor. All patients were treated successfully endoscopically. Conclusions: Placement of self-expandable metal stents represents a valid technique. A proper training is required.