Treatment approach in malignant left-bowel obstruction using self-expandable metallic stent: a case series

Abstract

Endoscopic self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) decompression in patients with bowel obstruction due to colon carcinoma has been practiced for over two decades now, both in potentially curable cases and metastatic cancer. Using this case series, we aim to review the literature on the subject and to present our initial experience with using this technique as a bridge to single stage surgery, thus minimizing colostomy creation.We retrospectively reviewed seven cases of bowel obstruction due to left-sided colonic cancer, between March 2020 and March 2021. All patients received SEMS prior to being treated, 7 to 13 days later, using either laparoscopic surgical techniques or open surgery methods. All seven patients underwent single stage surgery, eliminating the need for placing a temporary or permanent stoma, therefore minimizing the hospital stay and increasing the quality of life of the individual.We concluded that treatment with SEMSs for bowel obstruction in colorectal cancer was safe and well tolerated, resulting in primary anastomosis and restoration of the intestinal passage and low short-term morbidity.

Keywords

• bridge to surgery
• self-expandable metallic stent