Self-expanding metal stents for malignant esophageal obstruction: Experience in our praxis

Background: Dysphagia is the most common disabling symptom in patients with inoperable esophagogastric carcinoma. Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are highly effective in the palliation of these patients. Methods: Retrospective case note review of all patients receiving SEMS over a 1-year period between November 2011 and December 2012. 20 consecutive patients (7 female-13 male) where investigated. Median age of 69 (range 55 – 84) years, 15 patients (75%) had primary malignant disease of the esophagus or gastroesophageal junction. Results: In 20 patients, 22 stents were placed without technical problems. Dyspha…