Jose Maria Abadal MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Maria Jesus Alvarez, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Inmaculada Rodriguez, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Antonio Hernandez, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Jose Miguel Garcia-Diez, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Antonio Luna, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

The purpose of this study was to review our experience with self-expanding metallic stents as the definitive palliative treatment in patients with malignant colorectal obstruction.

Between April 1999 and December 2002, 160 patients with acute colorectal obstruction were treated with stents. Placement was performed under fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance. In 70 patients (43%), the procedure became the final palliative treatment. Mean follow up was 204 days (range: 36-373 days).

Stents were placed successfully in 90% of the patients. Clinical and radiological findings of bowel obstruction resolved in 88% of the patients within 72 hours. The estimated primary patency rate was 90% at 3 and 6 months. The survival rate was 55% and 44%, at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Major complications developed in 6 (8%) patients. One patient had perforation related to the stent; Stent migration was recognized in 2 patients; One patient presented an occlusive tumor ingrowth that required re-stenting; Two patients suffered from severe tenesmus.

Colorectal stenting is safe and effective in relieving colonic obstruction in patients with unresectable tumors or high surgical risk. It can be considered a first line treatment and can avoid other more invasive procedures.

Abadal, J, Alvarez, M, Rodriguez, I, Hernandez, A, Garcia-Diez, J, Luna, A, Palliative Colorectal Stenting.  Radiological Society of North America 2004 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 28 - December 3, 2004 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2004/4416125.html