Esophageal stenting for unresectable cancer (review of literature)

Abstract

To date, the main way to stop dysphagia for patients with unresectable esophageal cancer is stenting. Being widely accepted and effective, this technique, however, allows for oral nutrition only for an average of 3–4 months and is accompanied by the development of a wide range of complications. Recent Russian and foreign publications in the field show that evaluation of the effectiveness of the stenting technique, including analysis of possibility of complications development, is important for practical application. To improve long-term outcomes, the potential trends in the method evolution have already been identified. The stents coated with radioactive isotopes of iodine are among of the actively used novelties. Application of 3D printing for the manufacture of custom-tailored stents, as well as the inclusion of chemotherapeutic agents in the coating of self-expanding metal stents seem promising approach. The search for a «perfect stent» continues under paradigm of personalization.

Keywords

• esophagus
• unresectable cancer
• dysphagia
• esophageal stenting
• complications