Rahul A Nathwani1, Thomas Kowalski. 1. Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize the most relevant articles with regard to endoscopic stenting of esophageal cancer published in 2006. RECENT FINDINGS: In 2006, there were two studies on esophageal stents with experimental designs and adequate size to contribute to an evaluation of esophageal stent technology. A study on an antireflux stent will not measurably change the current use of this device, but emphasizes the need for additional investigation. A study on a self-expanding plastic stent was the largest study to date demonstrating a self-expanding plastic stent to be comparable to self-expanding metal stents. Other published studies in 2006 on esophageal stents include review articles, case reports and small case series that are not addressed in this review. SUMMARY: Self-expanding metal stents remain an important option for the treatment of patients with tracheoesophageal fistulae and esophageal malignancies. Recent innovations are dominated by a shift toward self-expanding esophageal stents that are potentially removable. Such potentially removable stents allow for expanded clinical applications and will be the focus of publications in 2007.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To summarize the most relevant articles with regard to endoscopic stenting of esophageal cancer published in 2006. RECENT FINDINGS: In 2006, there were two studies on esophageal stents with experimental designs and adequate size to contribute to an evaluation of esophageal stent technology. A study on an antireflux stent will not measurably change the current use of this device, but emphasizes the need for additional investigation. A study on a self-expanding plastic stent was the largest study to date demonstrating a self-expanding plastic stent to be comparable to self-expanding metal stents. Other published studies in 2006 on esophageal stents include review articles, case reports and small case series that are not addressed in this review. SUMMARY: Self-expanding metal stents remain an important option for the treatment of patients with tracheoesophageal fistulae and esophageal malignancies. Recent innovations are dominated by a shift toward self-expanding esophageal stents that are potentially removable. Such potentially removable stents allow for expanded clinical applications and will be the focus of publications in 2007.