Benign and malignant stenoses of the stomach and duodenum: treatment with self-expanding metallic endoprostheses.

Abstract

To assess palliation of inoperable stenoses of the stomach and the duodenum with self-expanding metallic endoprostheses. Under combined endoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance, 13 Wallstents were placed in nine consecutive patients, two with benign and seven with malignant obstruction. Technical success was achieved in eight patients (89%). One failure was due to stent dislocation during implantation. No major complications occurred; in two patients (22%), additional stents were implanted to improve patency. During the follow-up, which was 1-52 weeks (mean, 17 weeks) or until death there were no signs of stent obstruction. In seven patients (78%), quality of life improved substantially with restoration of oral food intake and relief of vomiting. The placement of Wallstents offers good palliation of inoperable outlet stenoses of the stomach and the duodenum. With a combined radiologic and endoscopic approach, it is an easy and rapid procedure that can be performed without general anesthesia.