Placement of Stents in the Esophagus, Stomach, Duodenum, and Colon

What Are Gastrointestinal Stents?

Gastrointestinal stents are small mesh tubes implanted within the digestive tract, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine. These stents are used to treat blockages or narrowing caused by various conditions such as tumors, infections, or injuries. They play a crucial role in restoring digestive function and improving the patient's quality of life.

Why Are Stents Placed?

•    Treatment of Obstructions: Stents help open blocked digestive passages, allowing food and liquids to pass through.
•    Symptom Relief: They alleviate discomfort associated with blockages, such as difficulty swallowing, pain, and bloating.
•    Improved Nutrition: Stents enable patients to eat and drink normally, enhancing their overall health condition.

Types of Stents
There are various types of stents differing in material, length, and diameter, with the appropriate type selected based on the patient's condition.

1.    Metallic Stents: Made from expandable materials, commonly used for esophageal obstructions.
2.    Covered Stents: Coated with a special material to prevent tissue overgrowth, often used for recurrent strictures.
3.    Self-Expanding Stents: Automatically expand within the digestive tract and do not require special catheters.

Stent Placement Procedure
Stent placement is performed under local or general anesthesia using an endoscope inserted through the mouth or rectum. The doctor guides the endoscope to the target area and places the stent in its designated position.

Benefits of Stent Placement
1.    Minimally invasive procedure
2.    Short recovery period
3.    Quick symptom relief
4.    Effective alternative to surgery in many cases

Potential Risks
1.    Bleeding
2.    Infection
3.    Stent migration
4.    Stent blockage

When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Patients should seek medical advice if they experience any of the following symptoms:
1.    Difficulty swallowing
2.    Chest or abdominal pain
3.    Nausea and vomiting
4.    Unexplained weight loss

Important Tips
•    Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully after the procedure.
•    Eat soft and mashed foods in the first few days after surgery.
•    Avoid solid and rough foods.
•    Drink plenty of fluids.
•    Visit your doctor regularly for follow-up.