Quality of Life and Symptom Control after Stent Placement or Surgical Palliation of Malignant Colorectal Obstruction

Predictive factors of surgery in metastatic colorectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

Current management of metastatic colorectal cancer is based on neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Few studies have reported on surgery procedures in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The objective of this study was to describe our institutional experience with emergency surgery performed in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer during chemotherapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study including adult patients of ≤80 years with a metastatic colorectal cancer between 2017 and 2020 and undergoing surgery during chemotherapy. Statistical analyses were based on Kaplan-Meier's curve and Cox proportional hazard model. The surgery statistical risk during chemotherapy was studied through all tumor and patient's characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify predictive factors of emergency surgery in these patients.

RESULTS

Seventy-two cases were identified and 60% patients undergone an emergency surgery. By Kaplan-Meier's analyses, intestinal surgery was much more frequent and early in patients who have severe stenosis (either blocking or only permeable using a gastroscope) at the time of diagnosis. Patients with severe malignant stenosis presented a 6.28 time higher surgery risk (p < .0001). The median time between admission and surgery was 54 days in patients with severe stenosis who were operated.

CONCLUSION

The degree of colorectal tumor stenosis measured by endoscopy was a risk factor for emergency surgery in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. In this group of patients presenting low survival outcomes, further studies are needed to define the place of preventive surgery, avoiding emergency surgery and morbidity in such fragile patients.

Outcomes of colon self–expandable metal stents for malignant vs benign indications at a tertiary care center and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) is a minimally invasive treatment for use in malignant and benign colonic obstruction. However, their widespread use is still limited with a nationwide analysis showing only 5.4% of patients with colon obstruction undergoing stent placement. This underutilization could be due to perceived increase risk of complications with stent placement.

AIM

To review long- and short-term clinical success of SEMS use for colonic obstruction at our center.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed all the patients who underwent colonic SEMS placement over a eighteen year period (August 2004 through August 2022) at our academic center. Demographics including age, gender, indication (malignant and benign), technical success, clinical success, complications (perforation, stent migration), mortality, and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

Sixty three patients underwent colon SEMS over an 18-year period. Fifty-five cases were for malignant indications, 8 were for benign conditions. The benign strictures included diverticular disease stricturing (n = 4), fistula closure (n = 2), extrinsic fibroid compression (n = 1), and ischemic stricture (n = 1). Forty-three of the malignant cases were due to intrinsic obstruction from primary or recurrent colon cancer; 12 were from extrinsic compression. Fifty-four strictures occurred on the left side, 3 occurred on the right and the rest in transverse colon. The total malignant case (n = 55) procedural success rate was 95% vs 100% for benign cases (P = 1.0, NS). Overall complication rate was significantly higher for benign group: Four complications were observed in the malignant group (stent migration, restenosis) vs 2 of 8 (25%) for benign obstruction (1-perforation, 1-stent migration) (P = 0.02). When stratifying complications of perforation and stent migration there was no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.14, NS).

CONCLUSION

Colon SEMS remains a worthwhile option for colonic obstruction related to malignancy and has a high procedural and clinical success rate. Benign indications for SEMS placement appear to have similar success to malignant. While there appears to be a higher overall complication rate in benign cases, our study is limited by sample size. When evaluating for perforation alone there does not appear to be any significant difference between the two groups. SEMS placement may be a practical option for indications other that malignant obstruction. Interventional endoscopists should be aware and discuss the risk for complications in setting of benign conditions. Indications in these cases should be discussed in a multi-disciplinary fashion with colorectal surgery.

Outcome of self-expandable metal stents placement for obstructive colorectal cancer: 7 years’ experience from a Swedish tertiary center

Background and study aims

Self expandable metal stents (SEMS) is an alternative to emergency surgery to treat malignant large bowel obstruction. It can be used either for palliation or as a bridge to curative surgery. Our study aims to review the outcomes of SEMS treatment in a tertiary center and to find predictors for the clinical outcome.

Patient and methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from SEMS insertion at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, a referral center in Western Sweden (1.7 million inhabitants), between 2014 and 2020. Data collected were age, the intent of intervention, tumor localization, complication rate, technical and clinical success, 30- and 90-days mortality as well as long-term survival for the indication bridge to surgery.

Results

We identified 265 SEMS insertions (mean age 72, female 49.4%). Most SEMS were used for palliation (90.2%). The malign obstruction was most often located in the left colon (71.7%). Technical success was achieved in 259 (97.7%) cases and clinical success in 244 (92.1%) cases. Post-operative complications occurred in 11 cases (4.2%). The 30-days mortality rate was 11.7% and the 90-day was 31.7%. In our analysis the tumor site was not associated with adverse outcomes and bridge to surgery indication was a positive prognostic factor for the 90-day mortality.

Conclusions

We found that SEMS is an effective and safe treatment for patients with acute obstructive colorectal cancer.

The range and suitability of outcome measures used in the assessment of palliative treatment for inoperable malignant bowel obstruction: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Malignant bowel obstruction, a complication of certain advanced cancers, causes severe symptoms which profoundly affect quality of life. Clinical management remains complex, and outcome assessment is inconsistent.

AIM

To identify outcomes evaluating palliative treatment for inoperable malignant bowel obstruction, as part of a four-phase study developing a core outcome set.

DESIGN

The review is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA); PROSPERO (ID: CRD42019150648). Eligible studies included at least one subgroup with obstruction below the ligament of Treitz undergoing palliative treatment for inoperable malignant bowel obstruction. Study quality was not assessed because the review does not evaluate efficacy.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Database, CINAHL, PSYCinfo Caresearch, Open Grey and BASE were searched for trials and observational studies in October 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 4769 studies were screened, 290 full texts retrieved and 80 (13,898 participants) included in a narrative synthesis; 343 outcomes were extracted verbatim and pooled into 90 unique terms across six domains: physiological, nutrition, life impact, resource use, mortality and survival. Prevalent outcomes included adverse events (78% of studies), survival (54%), symptom control (39%) and mortality (31%). Key individual symptoms assessed were vomiting (41% of studies), nausea (34%) and pain (33%); 19% of studies assessed quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment focuses on survival, complications and overall symptom control. There is a need for definitions of treatment 'success' that are meaningful to patients, a more consistent approach to symptom assessment, and greater consideration of how to measure wellbeing in this population.

Recent Updates in Gastrointestinal Stent Placement from the Esophagus to the Colon: A Radiological Perspective

Fluoroscopic-guided stent placement has become an advantageous treatment option for diverse gastrointestinal disorders. In addition to palliative stent placement in patients with inoperable cancers, stenting has gradually expanded to other conditions, including as a bridge to surgery, as well as in patients' benign lesions and anastomotic strictures or leaks. This narrative review describes the indications, efficacy and safety of stent placement from the esophagus to the colon, including current recommendations, recent updates, and novel stents.

Stoma formation as a palliative procedure: the role of the clinical nurse specialist in maintaining quality of life

More than half of patients diagnosed with colon cancer present at an advanced stage, and palliative treatment may involve stoma formation. A literature review was undertaken to determine the potential effects of stoma formation as a palliative procedure on a patient's quality of life, and to examine the role of the clinical nurse specialist in this situation. Limited literature was found on this specific subject, so established evidence surrounding stoma formation and quality of life was examined in relation to palliative care. The clinical nurse specialist provides expert knowledge that can help to limit stoma complications and is also able to conduct assessments that identify holistic concerns affecting quality of life. However, access to a clinical nurse specialist may be limited, particularly when surgery is performed as an emergency. There is the potential for research surrounding patient experiences that may improve service provision for this client group.

Short-term outcomes of stents in obstructive rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

With acute obstruction due to rectal or recto-sigmoid cancer, the safety and success of deploying self-expandable metal stents has been controversial. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the existing evidence on the outcomes and complication rates of stent placement in these patients.

METHODS

We performed a literature search of PubMed by using appropriate keywords, and manual reference screening of included articles was done. The article screening, data extraction, and quality assessment was done by four independent reviewers. A meta analyses was performed for the main outcome measures: technical and clinical success and complication rates.

RESULTS

We identified 962 articles in the search. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 32 articles in the meta-analysis. The pooled technical success rate across 26 studies that reported it was 97% [95% confidence interval (CI): 95%-99%] without evidence of significant heterogeneity (I² = 0.0%, P = 0.84), and the clinical success rate across 26 studies that reported it was 69% (95% CI: 58%-79%) with evidence of significant heterogeneity (I² = 81.7%, P < 0.001). The pooled overall complication rate across the 32 studies was 28% (95% CI: 20%-37%) with evidence of significant heterogeneity (I² = 79.3%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The use of rectal stents in obstructing rectal or recto-sigmoid tumors seems to be technically feasible. A high rate of technical success, however, does not always translate into clinical success. A considerable complication rate is associated with this approach. Randomized controlled trials are needed to compare the outcomes of rectal stent placement with those of surgery.

Colonic Stent Use by Indication and Patient Outcomes: A Nationwide Inpatient Sample Study

BACKGROUND

Colonic stent placement can avoid urgent surgery for large bowel obstruction in selected patients. Population-wide stent utilization patterns and outcomes are unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using retrospective, population-based, Nationwide Inpatient Sample data, we studied patients with colonic stents discharged during 2010-2015. The primary outcome was ostomy creation during the same hospitalization. Other outcomes were perforation or peritonitis, and in-hospital death. Associations of outcomes with stent indication were investigated, adjusting for patient-, admission-, and hospital characteristics. We estimated annual population-wide stent use volumes.

RESULTS

Of 4257 patients with stent placement (52% male, mean age 64.6 years), 9.9% had non-metastatic colon cancer, 12.9% metastatic colon cancer, 37.8% extracolonic malignancy (ECM), and 39.3% had benign obstruction. In 8.1% of patients, ostomy creation surgery was performed. Perforation or peritonitis occurred in 16.7%, and in-hospital death in 4.5%. Relative to ECM, ostomy creation was several-fold more likely among nonmetastatic colon cancer (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 3.4; 95%CI, 2.1-5.5), metastatic colon cancer (adjusted OR 2.5; 95%CI, 1.7-3.7), and benign obstruction patients (adjusted OR 3.1; 95%CI, 2.1-4.7). Benign obstruction was associated with high risk of perforation/peritonitis (adjusted OR 3.1 relative to non-metastatic CC (95%CI, 2.1-4.5)). Perforation/peritonitis was highly associated with inpatient death (adjusted OR 6.8 (95%CI, 4.9-9.5)). Annually, about 3,580 patients underwent stent placement, with benign obstruction showing an increasing trend (P=0.0002).

CONCLUSIONS

Over 75% of stent placements were done for patients with benign disease and ECM obstruction. Subsequent ostomy creation during the hospitalization was least likely among ECM patients. Rates of perforation/peritonitis in benign obstructions were concerningly high. (22.2%).

Definition of large bowel obstruction by primary colorectal cancer: A systematic review

AIM

Controversies on therapeutic strategy for large bowel obstruction by primary colorectal cancer mainly concern acute conditions, being essentially different from subacute obstruction. Clearly defining acute obstruction is important for design and interpretation of studies as well as for guidelines and daily practice. This systematic review aimed to evaluate definitions of obstruction by colorectal cancer in prospective studies.

METHOD

A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library. Eligibility criteria included randomized or prospective observational design, publication between 2000 and 2019, and the inclusion of patients with an obstruction caused by colorectal cancer. Provided definitions of obstruction were extracted with assessment of common elements.

RESULTS

A total of 16 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 99 prospective observational studies were included. Obstruction was specified as acute in 28 studies, complete/emergency in five, (sub)acute or similar terms in four and unspecified in 78. Five of 16 RCTs (31%) and 37 of 99 cohort studies (37%) provided a definition. The definitions included any combination of clinical symptoms, physical signs, endoscopic features and radiological imaging findings in 25 studies. The definition was only based on clinical symptoms in 11 and radiological imaging in six studies. Definitions included a radiological component in 100% of evaluable RCTs (5/5) vs. 54% of prospective observational studies (20/37, P = 0.07).

CONCLUSION

In this systematic review, the majority of prospective studies did not define obstruction by colorectal cancer and its urgency, whereas provided definitions varied hugely. Radiological confirmation seems to be an essential component in defining acute obstruction.

Colonic stent vs surgical resection of the primary tumor. Effect on survival from stage-IV obstructive colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

the impact of surgical primary tumor resection on survival of obstructive metastatic colorectal cancer remains controversial. The primary goal of this study was to analyze survival in patients with obstructive metastatic colorectal cancer after treatment with either resection surgery or a colonic stent.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

a prospective study was performed of all patients with stage-IV colorectal cancer and obstructive manifestations, diagnosed from 2005 to 2012 and managed with either resection surgery or a colonic stent. Cases with a perforation, abscess, right colon or distal rectal malignancy, multiple colorectal cancer or derivative surgery were excluded.

RESULTS

a total of 95 patients were included, 49 were managed with resection surgery and 46 with a colonic stent. The colonic stent group had a higher Charlson index (9.5 ± 2.1 vs 8.6 ± 1.5, p = 0.01), a shorter time to oral intake (0.9 ± 1.1 vs 16.4 ± 53.5 days, p = 0.05), a shorter hospital stay (4 ± 4.8 vs 16.7 ± 15.5 days, p = 0.0001), less need for stomata (11.1 % vs 32.7 %, p = 0.01), fewer early complications (4.3 % vs 46.9 %, p = 0.0001) and more late complications (33.3 % vs 6.4 %, p = 0.001). Undergoing chemotherapy (p = 0.008) was the only independent factor related to increased survival. In the subgroup of patients managed with chemotherapy, surgical primary tumor resection was an independent factor associated with increased survival.

CONCLUSION

both treatments are effective for resolving obstructive manifestations in patients diagnosed with stage-IV obstructive colorectal cancer. Resection surgery has no positive impact on survival and thus cannot be recommended as a therapy of choice.

Stenting as a Bridge to Surgery or a Palliative Treatment

Endoscopic stenting of the colorectum has emerged as a viable alternative to surgical interventions in a selected group of patients. The main indication for stenting is bowel obstruction. As such stenting can be used to palliate patients with metastatic disease or bridge patients to surgical intervention. The main advantages of stenting in the emergency setting include lower morbidity and mortality, lower incidence of stoma formation, shorter hospitalization, and better quality of life. For patients with unresectable disease and short life expectancy, stenting can be considered. However, for patients with longer life expectancy, the potential long-term complications of a metal stent such as erosion, migration, or obstruction have engendered debate whether such patients are better served by operative intervention. Stenting as a bridge to surgery is an alternative to surgery in patients who are high risk for emergency surgery but concerns remain regarding its impact on oncologic outcome in potentially curable patients.

Newly developed self-expandable Niti-S MD colonic metal stent for malignant colonic obstruction

BACKGROUND

Colonic stents are increasingly used to treat acute malignant colonic obstructions. The WallFlex and Niti-S D type stents are the commonly used self-expandable metallic stents available in Japan since 2012. WallFlex stent has a risk of stent-related perforation because of its axial force, while the Niti-S D type stent has a risk of obstructive colitis because of its weaker radial force. Niti-S MD type stents not only overcome these limitations but also permit delivery through highly flexible-tipped smaller-caliber colonoscopes.

AIM

To compare the efficacy and safety of the newly developed Niti-S MD type colonic stents.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective observational study included 110 patients with endoscopic self-expandable metallic stents placed between November 2011 and December 2018: WallFlex (Group W, n = 37), Niti-S D type (Group N, n = 53), and Niti-S MD type (Group MD, n = 20). The primary outcome was clinical success, defined as a resolution of obstructive colonic symptoms, confirmed by clinical and radiological assessment within 48 h. The secondary outcome was technical success, defined as accurate stent placement with adequate stricture coverage on the first attempt without complications.

RESULTS

The technical success rate was 100% in Groups W, N, and MD, and the overall clinical success rate was 89.2% (33/37), 96.2% (51/53), and 100% (20/20) in Groups W, N, and MD, respectively. Early adverse events included pain (3/37, 8.1%), poor expansion (1/37, 2.7%), and fever (1/37, 2.6%) in Group W and perforation due to obstructive colitis (2/53, 3.8%) in Group N (likely due to poor expansion). Late adverse events (after 7 d) included stent-related perforations (4/36, 11.1%) and stent occlusion (1/36, 2.8%) in Group W and stent occlusion (2/51, 3.9%) in Group N. The stent-related perforation rate in Group W was significantly higher than that in Group N (P < 0.05). No adverse event was observed in Group MD.

CONCLUSION

In our early and limited experience, the newly developed Niti-S MD type colonic stent was effective and safe for treating acute malignant colonic obstruction.

Endoscopic stenting in colorectal cancer

Acute malignant large bowel obstruction presents as one of the few emergencies of colorectal cancer (CRC). Management of this condition can either be by (I) upfront surgery or (II) the use of self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) as a bridge to elective surgery. For patients with metastasis, the use of SEMS is reported to enable earlier commencement of chemotherapy. Although the use of SEMS in patients with acute malignant large bowel obstruction looks promising, it is plagued by its own set of complications and divided opinion over its long-term outcomes. Conflicting data are present, and definitive indication requires further evaluation and debate. This article will describe the typical presentation of patients with acute malignant large bowel obstruction. An introduction to the SEMS insertion procedural steps will be undertaken. Following which the article aims to review the safety profile of SEMS and the short- and long-term outcomes of SEMS in both the curative and palliative setting.

Current status of colonic stent for obstructive colorectal cancer in Japan; a review of the literature

Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer in Japan. Approximately 10%-20% of the patients with colorectal cancer present with large bowel obstruction, and those who present with malignant colonic obstruction (MCO) require urgent decompression because MCO can cause electrolytic fluid imbalance, colonic necrosis, bacterial translocation, and death. Placement of colonic stents (self-expandable metallic stents) for MCO is a major and standard endoscopic treatment that has been available since 2012 in Japan. This review presents the current conditions and future prospects of this procedure based on the literature. The current indication of colonic stent placement is malignant colorectal stenosis. One of the purposes of using stents is palliative treatment; further, its advantages over emergency surgery with colostomy include avoidance of colostomy, relief of obstruction, shorter hospitalization, and better quality of life. In addition, stent placement can also be used as a bridge to surgery since the duration of the hospitalization is shorter and postoperative complications, colostomy rates, and mortality rates are lower with elective than with emergency surgery. Although recent studies have reported low complication rates related to colonic stents, complications may still occur, highlighting the importance of good preparation, adequate staffing, backup systems, and informed consent. The current major problem related to colonic stents is the lack of evidence on patients' long-term prognoses for bridge to surgery purposes, awaiting the results of ongoing clinical research.

Endoscopic stenting should be advocated in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer presenting with acute obstruction

Background

It remains contentious whether endoscopic stenting or upfront surgery is more optimal in patients with metastatic colorectal cancers presenting with large bowel obstruction.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who underwent either endoscopic stenting or emergency surgery for acute large bowel obstruction was performed.

Results

Between January 2007 and June 2014, 66 patients, median age, 64 (range, 25-96) years, presented with acute large bowel obstruction from metastatic colorectal cancer. Forty (60.6%) patients underwent endoscopic stenting whilst the rest received immediate upfront surgical intervention. Of the 40 patients, 29 (72.5%) were successfully stented. The remaining 11 (27.5%) patients who failed endoscopic stenting required immediate emergency surgery to relieve the obstruction. Patients who failed endoscopic stenting had worse complications than those patients who had their stents successfully inserted [odds ratio (OR), 23.3; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.29-250.00, P=0.004]. Patients who underwent emergency surgery had a longer median length of stay than patients who had successful endoscopic stenting (P=0.003). The patients that underwent successful stenting had earlier commencement of chemotherapy compared to those who had upfront surgery (P=0.02). There was no difference in stoma creation rates between patients who had emergency surgery versus those who were successfully stented.

Conclusions

Stenting is a safe option in patients with stage IV colorectal cancer presenting with acute large bowel obstruction. Earlier commencement of chemotherapy occurs in patients who were successfully stented. Patients who failed stenting have equivalent outcomes to those who undergone upfront emergency surgery.

Impact of restenting for recurrent colonic obstruction due to tumour ingrowth

Background

Endoscopic stenting is used to palliate malignant large bowel obstruction. A proportion of patients will develop recurrent obstruction due to tumour ingrowth and require reintervention. This study aimed to assess the outcome (clinical success and complication rates) of endoscopic reintervention compared with surgical intervention in patients with stent obstruction due to tumour ingrowth.

Methods

This was an observational study using data from a database of patients who underwent palliative colonic stenting between January 1998 and March 2017 at Christchurch Public Hospital.

Results

A total of 190 patients underwent colonic stent insertion, for palliation in 182 cases. Reintervention was performed in 55 (30·2 per cent). Thirty-one patients (17·0 per cent) developed obstruction within the stent at a median of 4·6 (i.q.r. 2·3-7·7) months after the procedure. Of these, 21 had endoscopic restenting and ten underwent surgery. Restenting had technical and clinical success rates of 100 per cent, and involved a significantly shorter length of stay compared with surgery (median 2 (i.q.r. 1-4) versus 11 (6-19) days respectively; P = 0·006). Seven of the 21 patients in the restented group underwent a third palliative intervention. The overall stoma rate in the restented group was significantly lower than that in the surgical group (4 of 21 versus 10 of 10; P < 0·001). There was no difference in complications or survival between the two groups.

Conclusion

Among palliative patients who develop malignant stent obstruction, endoscopic restenting had a high chance of technical success. It resulted in a shorter hospital stay and lower stoma rate than those seen after surgery.

Malignant Bowel Obstruction in Advanced Gynecologic Cancers: An Updated Review from a Multidisciplinary Perspective

Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is a major complication in women with advanced gynecologic cancers which imposes a significant burden on patients, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Symptoms of MBO are challenging to palliate and result in progressive decompensation of already vulnerable patients with limited therapeutic options and a short prognosis. However, there is a paucity of guidelines or innovative approaches to improve the care of women who develop MBO. MBO is a complex clinical situation that requires a multidisciplinary approach to ensure the appropriate treatment modality and interprofessional care to optimally manage these patients. This review summarizes the current literature on the different approaches targeting MBO management including surgical intervention, chemotherapy, total parenteral nutrition, and pharmacological treatment. In addition, the impact of MBO management on patients' quality of life (QOL) is examined. This article focuses on the challenges in developing evidence-based treatment guidelines for MBO and barriers in clinical trial design for MBO and proposes strategies to advance the MBO management. Collaboration is essential to design studies that may improve the overall care and quality of life for these patients. Prospective data are needed to inform clinical practice, establish a new benchmark for evidence-based MBO management, and better understand the biology of MBO.

Endoscopic Stenting for Colorectal Cancer: Lessons Learned From a 15-Year Experience

GOAL

The aim of our prospective study was to analyze the results of endoscopic stenting to treat obstruction due to colorectal cancer and complications after colorectal resection for cancer.

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic stenting for obstructing colorectal cancer has become a common place in clinical practice. However, there is a 2% to 5% risk of bowel perforation, and a percentage of technical failure of 2% to 10%.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a 15-year period (August, 1999 to December, 2013), 153 patients with colorectal cancer had endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metal stent for treatment of an obstructing colorectal cancer (133 patients) or for treatment of complications after colorectal resection for cancer (20 patients). They were prospectively evaluated in a database and they form the basis of this report.

RESULTS

There was no case of mortality or major morbidity. Overall technical success was 94.8%. After introducing the use of a pediatric nasogastroscope to pass the obstruction (71 patients), technical success was 100%. Complications in patients in whom the stent was left in place during the follow-up were frequent, requiring a close observation. We had 20 patients with fecal obstruction, 4 cases of stent dislodgment, and 8 cases of obstruction from ingrowth of the tumor. All patients were treated successfully endoscopically.

CONCLUSIONS

Placement of self-expandable metal stents represents a valid technique. A proper training is required.

Predictors of Complications and Mortality in Patients with Self-Expanding Metallic Stents for the Palliation of Malignant Colonic Obstruction

INTRODUCTION

Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) for palliative purposes in malignant colonic obstruction are an alternative to surgery that has gained popularity over time.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of patients submitted to SEMS for palliation of obstructing malignant colorectal cancer from 2005 to 2015 to evaluate predictive clinical factors for complications and mortality.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients with high rates of technical and clinical success were included (97.8 and 95.6%, respectively), with complications occurring in 17.8% (8.9% perforations, 4.4% obstructions, and 4.4% migrations). The length of the stenosis was superior in patients with complications (p = 0.01); 11.1% of patients had a re-intervention (2.2% surgery and 8.9% placement of another SEMS). Relief of obstruction without intervention was maintained until death in 77.8% of patients and in 81.4% of patients who had immediate clinical success. The mortality rate was 37.2% at 30 days, 56.5% at 60 days, and 87.5% at 1 year. There were no predictors of survival identified, including age, sex, tumor stage, metastasis, or complications of the procedure.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

In this study, SEMS placement was associated with a high rate of technical and clinical success and a low rate of complications, being an option to palliate patients with obstructive neoplasia. The length of the stenosis was associated with a greater risk of complications. The majority of stent-related complications can be managed successfully without surgery.

Safety and efficacy of palliative colorectal stent placement using a nasal endoscope technique

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of palliative self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) placement using a nasal endoscope technique in the context of colorectal malignant obstruction. Eighteen patients with malignant colorectal obstruction who underwent palliative SEMS insertion using a nasal endoscope technique at the Toyonaka Municipal Hospital from August 2005 to August 2011 were enrolled and retrospectively analyzed. In all cases, a guidewire could be inserted on the oral side of the tumor. The placement success rate was 94.4% (17/18), and the complication rate was 23.5% (4 cases). The stent migrated in 3 cases, and perforation occurred in 1 case following bevacizumab chemotherapy. These outcomes indicate that stenting is useful for terminal patients and that nasal endoscopy is useful in cases of difficult guidewire placement.

Self-Expanding Metallic Stents Versus Surgical Intervention as Palliative Therapy for Obstructive Colorectal Cancer: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) are useful tools for relieving large bowel obstructions in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), their efficacy in a palliative setting has not been validated. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the feasibility of SEMS as a palliation for unresectable CRC patients with bowel obstructions and to determine their contribution to the prognosis of CRC, compared with surgical intervention.

METHODS

We conducted a literature search of the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. We selected all controlled trials that compared SEMS with surgical interventions as palliative treatments in unresectable obstructive CRC patients. The primary outcome was early complications, and the secondary outcomes were mortality, other morbidities, and long-term survival rates.

RESULTS

Ten studies met our inclusion criteria. SEMS significantly reduced the risk of early complications (odds ratio [OR] 0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20-0.58%; P<0.01), mortality (OR 0.31; 95% CI 0.15%-0.64%; P<0.01), and stoma creation (OR 0.19; 95% CI 0.12-0.28%; P<0.01). Although SEMS placement was significantly associated with a higher risk of perforation of the large bowel (OR 5.25 95% CI 2.00-13.78%; P<0.01) and late complications (OR 1.94; 95% CI 0.90-4.19%; P=0.03), it also contributed significantly to better long-term survival (hazard ratio 0.46; 95% CI 0.31-0.68%; P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with surgical intervention, SEMS could provide feasible palliation for patients with bowel obstructions and unresectable CRC, because of their acceptable morbidity rates and better patient prognoses.

Self-Expanding Metallic Stents for the Management of Emergency Malignant Large Bowel Obstruction: a Systematic Review

OBJECTIVES

This paper evaluates the safety and effectiveness of self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) for the management of emergency malignant colorectal obstruction in patients otherwise requiring multi-stage surgery. No systematic review has been conducted comparing SEMS to only multi-stage surgery.

METHODS

Bibliographic databases, including Cochrane, PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL, were searched in September 2011 and repeated in November 2013. A pre-determined protocol outlined the study inclusion and appraisal.

RESULTS

Forty articles were included, seven compared SEMS to multi-stage surgery. Included studies were of low to moderate quality. Bowel perforation was the most severe stent-related complication, while tumor- and stent-related events occurred most frequently. No significant differences in rates of obstruction relief were reported between treatments, and results regarding relative quality of life were inconclusive. SEMS recipients progressed to elective surgery sooner and required shorter post-procedural hospital stays, but commonly required re-intervention. SEMS provided enduring palliative relief of obstruction, with comparable survival longevity between treatments. Conclusion: SEMS placement is a viable alternative to multi-stage surgery, providing patients with benefits as a bridge-to-surgery and relief of obstruction in a palliative context, with minimal differences in clinical success and safety compared to multi-stage surgery.

Acute Treatment of Malignant Colorectal Occlusion: Real Life Practice

Introduction

Colorectal cancer presents itself as acute bowel occlusion in 10–40% of patients. There are two main therapeutic approaches: urgent surgery and endoluminal placement self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS).

Aims and Methods

This study intended to better clarify the risk/benefit ratio of the above-mentioned approaches. We conducted a retrospective longitudinal multicenter study, including 189 patients with acute malignant colorectal occlusion, diagnosed between January 2005 and March 2013.

Results

Globally (85 patients – 35 bridge-to-surgery and 50 palliative), SEMS's technical success was of 94%. Palliative SEMS had limited clinical success (60%) and were associated with 40% of complications. SEMS occlusion (19%) was the most frequent complication, followed by migration (9%) and bowel perforation (7%). Elective surgery after stenting was associated with a higher frequency of primary anastomosis (94% vs. 76%; p = 0.038), and a lower rate of colostomy (26% vs. 55%; p = 0.004) and overall mortality (31% vs. 57%; p = 0.02). However, no significant differences were identified concerning postoperative complications. Regarding palliative treatment, no difference was found in the complications rate and overall mortality between SEMS and decompressive colostomy/ileostomy. In this SEMS subgroup, we found a higher rate of reinterventions (40% vs. 5%; p = 0.004) and a longer hospital stay (14, nine vs. seven, three days; p = 0.004).

Conclusion

SEMS placement as a bridge-to-surgery should be considered in the acute treatment of colorectal malignant occlusion, since it displays advantages regarding primary anastomosis, colostomy rate and overall mortality. In contrast, in this study, palliative SEMS did not appear to present significant advantages when compared to decompressive colostomy.

Improving Quality of Life for People with Incurable Large-Bowel Obstruction: Randomized Control Trial of Colonic Stent Insertion

BACKGROUND

Surgery remains the dominant treatment for large-bowel obstruction, with emerging data on self-expanding metallic stents.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess whether stent insertion improves quality of life and survival in comparison with surgical decompression.

DESIGN

This study reports on a randomized control trial (registry number ACTRN012606000199516).

SETTING

This study was conducted at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, and Western Hospital, Melbourne.

PATIENTS AND INTERVENTION

Patients with malignant incurable large-bowel obstruction were randomly assigned to surgical decompression or stent insertion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary end point was differences in EuroQOL EQ-5D quality of life. Secondary end points included overall survival, 30-day mortality, stoma rates, postoperative recovery, complications, and readmissions.

RESULTS

Fifty-two patients of 58 needed to reach the calculated sample size were evaluated. Stent insertion was successful in 19 of 26 (73%) patients. The remaining 7 patients required a stoma compared with 24 of 26 (92%) surgery group patients (p < 0.001). There were no stent-related perforations or deaths. The surgery group had significantly reduced quality of life compared with the stent group from baseline to 1 and 2 weeks (p = 0.001 and p = 0.012), and from baseline to 12 months (p = 0.01) in favor of the stent group, whereas both reported reduced quality of life. The stent group had an 8% 30-day mortality compared with 15% for the surgery group (p = 0.668). Median survival was 5.2 and 5.5 months for the groups (p = 0.613). The stent group had significantly reduced procedure time (p = 0.014), postprocedure stay (p = 0.027), days nothing by mouth (p = 0.002), and days before free access to solids (p = 0.022).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited by the lack of an EQ-5D Australian-based population set.

CONCLUSIONS

Stent use in patients with incurable large-bowel obstruction has a number of advantages with faster return to diet, decreased stoma rates, reduced postprocedure stay, and some quality-of-life benefits.

Colonic perforation with intraluminal stents and bevacizumab in advanced colorectal cancer: retrospective case series and literature review

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are increasingly used in the treatment of malignant large bowel obstruction in the setting of inoperable colorectal cancer. Perforation is a well-known complication associated with these devices. The addition of the vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor bevacizumab is suspected to increase the rate, but the extent of the increase is not known.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients receiving SEMS in tertiary hospitals in Calgary, Alta., between October 2001 and January 2012.

RESULTS

We reviewed the records of 87 patients with inoperable colorectal cancer who received SEMS during our study period. Nine perforations occurred in total: 4 of 30 (13%) patients who received no chemotherapy, 3 of 47 (6%) who received chemotherapy but no bevacizumab, and 2 of 10 (20%) who received chemotherapy and bevacizumab. These two patients received bevacizumab with FOLFIRI after SEMS placement, and they had peritoneal disease.

CONCLUSION

Our case series and other studies suggest that bevacizumab may increase the risk of colonic perforation in the setting of SEMS. Caution should be used when combining these therapies.

Role of stenting in gastrointestinal benign and malignant diseases

Advances in stents design have led to a substantial increase in the use of stents for a variety of digestive diseases. Initially developed as a non-surgical treatment for palliation of esophageal cancer, the stents now have an emerging role in the management of malignant and benign conditions as well as in all segments of the gastrointestinal tract. In this review, relevant literature search and expert opinions have been used to evaluate the key-role of stenting in gastrointestinal benign and malignant diseases.

Gastrointestinal stenting: Current status and imaging features

The use of stents in the gastrointestinal tract has been subjected to major changes. Initially, the use of stents was restricted to malignant strictures in patients with metastatic disease. But thanks to reduction of the morbidity and mortality rates, they are now used with curative intention and in patients with benign diseases after careful selection. However, for patients presenting with colon obstruction due to an advanced colon carcinoma, the mortality and morbidity are still high. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of indications, techniques and further developments of the stents in the gastrointestinal tract and to highlight the predominant role of multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) in the detection of potential complications.

Short-term outcomes following the use of self-expanding metallic stents in acute malignant colonic obstruction--a single centre experience

BACKGROUND

Colonic self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) may provide prompt relief of acute malignant colorectal obstruction (AMCO) and are increasingly used either palliatively or as a bridge to surgery (BTS) in patients in whom a definitive surgical approach is unsuitable. We evaluated short-term outcomes of malignant colorectal obstructive patients who underwent SEMS insertion in our institution over a 3-year period.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database was reviewed to identify all patients who presented to our institution with AMCO between August 2010 and 2013 and who were treated with a SEMS either temporarily or permanently. Additional data was retrieved from chart reviews and operation notes.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (12 males, 4 females) each had a single stent inserted during the study period, either palliatively (n = 11) or as a BTS (n = 5). The technical and clinical success rates were both 87.5% (14/16). The two unsuccessful stenting cases both had disseminated disease and required emergency surgery while five patients with curable disease proceeded to elective resections. There was no procedure-related mortality or stent-related perforations. The mean (standard deviation) length of stay post acute surgery was longer than elective surgery [45 ± 21.2 vs. 15.8 ± 4.0, days]. All patients in the BTS group were stoma-free post-operatively, while both patients who had emergency surgery ended up with permanent stomas. Finally, the stent complication rate was 6.2% (1/16), secondary to migration.

CONCLUSIONS

Although limited by a small sample size, the study shows that SEMS have favourable short-term outcomes. Further adequately powered trials are needed to confirm those findings.

Perforation in colorectal stenting: a meta-analysis and a search for risk factors

BACKGROUND

Recent studies suggest that there is a substantial risk of perforation after colorectal stent placement.

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors for perforation from colonic stenting.

DESIGN

A meta-analysis of 86 studies published between 2005 and 2011.

SETTING

Multicenter review.

PATIENTS

All patients who underwent colorectal stent placement.

INTERVENTION

Colorectal stent placement.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

The occurrence of perforation with subgroup analyses for stent design, stricture etiology, stricture dilation, and concomitant chemotherapy, including the use of bevacizumab.

RESULTS

A total of 4086 patients underwent colorectal stent placement; perforation occurred in 207. Meta-analysis revealed an overall perforation rate of 7.4%. Of the 9 most frequently used stent types, the WallFlex, the Comvi, and the Niti-S D-type had a higher perforation rate (>10%). A lower perforation rate (<5%) was found for the Hanarostent and the Niti-S covered stent. Stenting benign strictures was associated with a significantly increased perforation rate of 18.4% compared with 7.5% for malignant strictures. Dilation did not increase the risk of perforation: 8.5% versus 8.5% without dilation. The subgroup of post-stent placement dilation had a significantly increased perforation risk of 20.4%. With a perforation rate of 12.5%, bevacizumab-based therapy was identified as a risk factor for perforation, whereas the risk for chemotherapy without bevacizumab was 7.0% and not increased compared with the group without concomitant therapies during stent therapy (9.0%).

LIMITATIONS

Heterogeneity; a considerable proportion of data is unavailable for subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The perforation rate of colonic stenting is 7.4%. Stent design, benign etiology, and bevacizumab were identified as risk factors for perforation. Intraprocedural stricture dilation and concomitant chemotherapy were not associated with an increased risk of perforation.

Systematic review of self-expanding stents in the management of benign colorectal obstruction

AIM

Colorectal obstruction due to benign disease is likely to become more prevalent. Self-expanding stents have been shown to be effective in reducing morbidity and allowing one-stage resection or improved palliation in colorectal cancer. This review assessed the use of self-expanding stents in benign colorectal obstruction.

METHOD

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library. Keywords included: 'benign disease' 'colorectal obstruction', 'stent', 'endoprosthesis' and 'prosthesis' Original articles from all relevant listings were sourced. These were hand searched for further articles of relevance. The main outcome measures assessed were technical and clinical success, perforation, reobstruction and stoma avoidance in the bridge to surgery population.

RESULTS

The search strategy identified 130 articles; the 21 included studies yielded a pooled analysis of 122 patients. Diverticulitis was the predominant aetiology (66/122, 54%). Technical success was achieved in 115/122 (94%) and clinical success in 108/120 (87%) patients. Overall, the perforation rate was 12% (15/122) and the reobstruction rate was 14% (17/122). A stoma was avoided in 48% (23/48) of bridge to surgery patients. Perforation and stoma avoidance in the bridge to surgery group were worse with an aetiology of diverticulitis.

CONCLUSION

Complication rates in stenting for benign colorectal obstruction are higher than for malignant obstruction. On the basis of limited published evidence, stenting cannot be recommended for benign colorectal obstruction.

Self-expandable metal stents in the treatment of benign anastomotic stricture after rectal resection for cancer

AIM

To evaluate the use of self-expandable metallic stents to treat patients with symptomatic benign anastomotic stricture after colorectal resection.

METHOD

Ten patients with a benign symptomatic anastomotic stricture after colorectal resection were treated with endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metal stent.

RESULTS

The stent was placed successfully in all 10 patients without any major morbidity. At a mean follow-up of 18 months the stenosis was resolved successfully in 7 out 10 patients (70%). The remaining three patients were subsequently treated successfully with balloon dilatation.

CONCLUSION

Self-expandable metal stents represent a valid alternative to balloon dilatation to treat patients with benign symptomatic anastomotic stricture after colorectal resection for cancer.

Self-expandable metal stents for malignant colonic obstruction: data from a retrospective regional SIED-AIGO study

BACKGROUND

Self-expandable metal stents are a non-surgical option for the treatment of symptomatic malignant colorectal obstruction as palliative treatment or as a bridge to surgery.

AIMS

To report data from a regional study on self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) placement for malignant colorectal obstruction.

METHODS

Two hundred and four patients (male 54.9%, mean age of 69.5 ± 14.2) were retrospectively evaluated and data on technical and clinical success, and complications, were analyzed.

RESULTS

Technical and clinical success rates were 99% and 94.6% respectively, with 36.7% treated on an emergency basis and 63.3% electively. Palliative treatment was administered to 70.1%, and as a bridge to surgery for 29.9%. Complications were 17 neoplastic ingrowths, 10 stent migrations, and 4 perforations. Palliative treatment was associated with a higher risk of stent ingrowth (p=0.003), and chemotherapy with a lower risk of stent ingrowth (p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

This regional study, although it has certain limitations, confirms the positive role of self-expandable metal stents in the treatment of symptomatic malignant colorectal obstruction, and that chemotherapy decreases the risk of ingrowth.

Status and literature review of self-expandable metallic stents for malignant colorectal obstruction

Use of colorectal stents has increased dramatically over the last decades. Colorectal stents offer an alternative way to relieve fatal intestinal obstruction and can take place of emergency surgery, which associated with significant morbidity and mortality and a high incidence of stoma creation, to elective resection. Although there remain a few concerns regarding the use of stents as a bridge to surgical resection, use of self-expandable metallic stents for palliation in patients with unresectable disease has come to be generally accepted. Advantages of colorectal stents include acute restoration of luminal patency and allowance of time for proper staging and surgical optimization, and the well-known disadvantages are procedure-related complications including perforation, migration, and stent failure. General indications, procedures, and clinical outcomes as well as recent evidences regarding the use of colorectal stents will be discussed in this review.

Treatment of anastomotic stenosis and leakage after colorectal resection for cancer with self-expandable metal stents

BACKGROUND

Self-expandable metallic stents can be used to treat patients with symptomatic anastomotic complications after colorectal resection.

METHODS

Twenty patients with symptomatic anastomotic stricture after colorectal resection were treated with endoscopic placement of a self-expandable metal stent. Ten patients had "simple" anastomotic stricture. In the remaining 10 patients, a leak was associated with the stricture.

RESULTS

The anastomotic leakage healed without evidence of residual stricture or major fecal incontinence in 8 of 10 patients. Overall, the anastomotic stricture was resolved in 14 of the 20 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-expandable metal stents represent a valid adjunctive to treat patients with symptomatic anastomotic complications after colorectal resection for cancer. They have a complementary role to balloon dilatation in case of simple anastomotic stricture, and they improve the rate of healing when the stricture is associated with a leak.

The new nitinol conformable self-expandable metal stents for malignant colonic obstruction: a pilot experience as bridge to surgery treatment

Introduction. Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are a nonsurgical option for treatment of malignant colorectal obstruction also as a bridge to surgery approach. The new nitinol conformable stent has improved clinical outcomes in these kinds of patients. We report a pilot experience with nitinol conformable SEMS placement as bridge to surgery treatment in patients with colorectal obstruction. Materials and Methods. Between April and August 2012, we collected data on colonic nitinol conformable SEMS placement in a cohort of consecutive symptomatic patients, with malignant colorectal obstruction, who were treated as a bridge to surgery. Technical success, clinical success, and adverse events were recorded. Results. Ten patients (7 male (70%)), with a mean age of 69.2 ± 10.1, were evaluated. The mean length of the stenosis was 3.6 ± 0.6 cm. Five patients (50%) were treated on an emergency basis. The median time from stent placement to surgery was 16 days (interquartile range 7–21). Technical and clinical success was achieved in all patients with a significant early improvement of symptoms. No adverse events due to the SEMS placement were observed. Conclusion. This pilot study confirmed the important role of nitinol conformable SEMS as a bridge to surgery option in the treatment of symptomatic malignant colorectal obstruction.

Surgical management of obstructed and perforated colorectal cancer: still debating and unresolved issues

SUMMARY Emergency surgery for obstruction and perforation from colorectal cancer (CRC) predicts poorer outcomes compared with elective surgery. For obstructed cancers, the evidence suggests significantly poorer outcomes with multistaged procedures compared with single-stage procedures in this group. Stenting remains an attractive option as a ‘bridge-to-surgery’, with multiple single-center studies demonstrating excellent short-term outcomes. However, contradictory evidence from three randomized trials casts doubts on stenting as the preferred modality for initial management of all curative obstructed CRCs. Results from a UK multicenter randomized controlled trial are still awaited. Palliative stenting shows predominantly positive results and is a valuable option for nonresectable or incurable CRCs. All authors agree on emergency surgery as the primary modality of treatment for perforated malignancies. Short-term outcomes are markedly poorer than the elective surgery group and correlate with the degree of peritoneal contamination. Long-term outcomes are comparable to elective surgery when perioperative deaths are excluded.

Palliative treatment for incurable malignant colorectal obstructions: A meta-analysis

AIM: To perform a meta-analysis of palliative stent placement vs palliative surgical decompression for management of incurable malignant colorectal obstructions.

METHODS: The databases of Medline, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from their inception to July 2012 for studies (prospective, retrospective, randomized controlled trials, and case-control trials) designed as comparative analyses of patients with incurable malignant colorectal obstructions treated by self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) or palliative surgery. No language restrictions were imposed. The main outcome measures were hospital stay, intensive care unit admission, clinical success rate, 30-d mortality, stoma formation, complications, and overall survival time. The data extraction was conducted by two investigators working independently and using a standardized form. The Mantel-Haenszel χ² method was used to estimate the pooled risk ratios with 95%CI under a fixed-effects model; when statistical heterogeneity existed in the pooled data (as evaluated by Q test and I² statistics, where P < 0.10 and I² < 25% indicated heterogeneity), a random-effects model was used.

RESULTS: Thirteen relevant articles, representing 837 patients (SEMS group, n = 404; surgery group, n = 433), were selected for analysis. Compared to the surgery group, the SEMS group showed lower clinical success (99.8% vs 93.1%, P = 0.0009) but shorter durations of hospital stay (18.84 d vs 9.55 d, P < 0.00001) and time to initiation of chemotherapy (33.36 d vs 15.53 d, P < 0.00001), and lower rate of stoma formation (54.0% vs 12.7%, P < 0.00001). Additionally, the SEMS group experienced a significantly lower rate of 30-d mortality (4.2% vs 10.5%, P = 0.01). Stent-related complications were not uncommon and included perforation (10.1%), migration (9.2%), and occlusion (18.3%). Surgery-related complications were slightly less common and included wound infection (5.0%) and anastomotic leak (4.7%). The rate of total complications was similar between these two groups (SEMS: 34.0% vs surgery: 38.1%, P = 0.60), but the surgery-related complications occurred earlier than stent-related complications (rate of early complications: 33.7% vs 13.7%, P = 0.03; rate of late complications: 32.3% vs 12.7%, P < 0.0001). The overall survival time of SEMS- and surgery-treated patients was not significantly different (7.64 mo vs 7.88 mo).

CONCLUSION: SEMS is less effective than surgery for palliation of incurable malignant colorectal obstructions, but is associated with a shorter time to chemotherapy and lower 30-d mortality.

Colonic stenting: a practical update

Colonic stenting is part of the UK service provision guidelines for colorectal cancer. However, there are issues about availability and expertise within the UK, and controversies remain regarding various clinical and technical aspects of the technique. Based on the current evidence, this article will provide a practical update on the indications, the clinical and technical considerations and the remaining unanswered questions regarding colonic stenting.

Meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing endoscopic stenting and surgical decompression for colorectal cancer obstruction

PURPOSE

Surgical decompression is the traditional treatment for acute colorectal cancer obstruction. In recent years, colorectal stenting has been used to relieve the obstruction. This study used meta-analytic techniques to compare colonic stenting versus surgical decompression for colorectal cancer obstruction.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of several databases was conducted. The search identified 321 potential abstracts and titles of which eight randomized trials involving 353 patients were retrieved in full text. A meta-analysis of the studies included was carried out to identify the differences in outcomes between the two procedures.

RESULTS

The pooled analysis showed no significant differences for mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.91) and morbidity (OR 2.05) rates between the two strategies while the permanent stoma creation rate was significantly higher in the surgical group as compared to the stent group (OR 3.12). By comparing surgery and colonic stenting in studies which analyzed the use of stenting as a "bridge to surgery," the pooled analysis showed that primary anastomosis was more frequent in the stent group as compared to the surgical group (OR 0.42), and the stoma creation was more frequent in the surgical group as compared to the stent group (OR 2.36).

CONCLUSION

Our study suggested that, in patients with acute colorectal cancer obstruction, stent placement improved several outcomes, such as primary anastomosis, stoma formation, and permanent stoma, while it failed to show an improvement in mortality and morbidity risk.

Self-expandable metallic stents in patients with stage IV obstructing colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to analyze the results of our experience with elective placement of self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) in patients with stage IV obstructing colorectal cancer. A systematic review of the literature was also carried out to analyze the factors influencing the results of SEMS placement and to determine if there has been any improvement in the more recent period.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of a personal series of 100 patients were analyzed. There was no case of mortality or major morbidity. The systematic review included 27 articles published from April 2007 to December 2011.

RESULTS

In our experience the technical success rate was 96% and the clinical success rate was 92%. During the follow-up period a repeat colonoscopy was needed in 31% of the patients for recurrent symptoms of obstruction due to fecal impaction (19%), tumor growth (8%), or stent dislodgment (4%). Review of the literature showed similar results, with a significant improvement in the reports of the last 6 years; procedures performed on an emergency basis had poorer results.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-expandable metallic stent placement offers a valid alternative to surgery in patients with obstructing stage IV colorectal cancer, but careful follow-up is required.

Feasibility of a new self-expandable metallic stent for patients with malignant colorectal obstruction

AIM

Stent migration due to peristalsis of the colon is one of the unresolved complications of colonic self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement. Axial force (AF), a recovery force of the stent to a straight position after bending, has been considered a factor influencing the conformability of the digestive tract. An uncovered SEMS (Niti-S Enteral Colonic Uncovered Stent, D-type; Taewoong, Inc., Gimpo, South Korea) with improved conformability is considered to decrease migration.

METHODS

Thirty three consecutive patients with symptomatic colorectal obstruction between March 2006 and December 2011 underwent endoscopic stent placement for palliation to estimate the efficacy and safety of Niti-S stents prospectively in four tertiary referral centers.

RESULTS

Technical and clinical success rates were 100% and 97%, respectively. Seventeen patients had the following complications: ingrowth (n = 6), overgrowth (n = 1), collapse of the SEMS (n = 1), stool impaction (n = 2), migration (n = 1), bleeding (n = 3), and tenesmus (n = 3). The patient with migration had no recurrent symptoms until death. Of these 17 patients, 10 required re-interventions. Seven patients underwent an additional SEMS implantation. One patient underwent surgery for stoma creation. Two patients had stool impaction, and they underwent endoscopic cleaning. The median duration of patency was 347.0 ± 65.5 days. The mean survival time after stent insertion was 240.1 ± 39.9 days.

CONCLUSION

The new SEMS effectively relieves malignant colorectal obstruction. Good conformability, according to the very low AF, may contribute to the low incidence of migration.

A new technique for placement of a self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) in patients with colon rectal obstruction: a prospective study of 43 patients

BACKGROUND

Self-expanding metallic stent (SEMS) placement is a valid form of therapy for patients with obstructing colon rectal cancer. The procedure is not feasible for a minority of patients with a very low risk of bowel perforation. This report analyzes the results of a technical detail used for SEMS placement.

METHODS

In 43 patients with colon rectal obstruction, the SEMS apparatus was introduced through a guidewire passed above the obstruction in the channel of a pediatric nasogastroscope (diameter, 4.9 mm). The pediatric nasogastroscope was passed into the obstruction and above, allowing the anatomy of the colorectal lesion and the passage of the guidewire to be visualized directly.

RESULTS

The SEMS was inserted successfully in all cases without complications. In a previous series of 82 patients who had passage of the guidewire through the obstruction blindly, four technical failures occurred (nonsignificant difference).

CONCLUSIONS

A pediatric nasogastroscope can be useful for passing the colon rectal obstruction and guiding the passage of the guidewire under direct vision.

Favorable long-term clinical outcome of uncovered D-weave stent placement as definitive palliative treatment for malignant colorectal obstruction

BACKGROUND

Most self-expandable metallic stents for colorectal placement are uncovered because of the high migration rate of covered stents. However, the optimal stent design for colorectal use remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a double-wire woven uncovered stent for definitive palliative treatment of malignant colorectal obstruction.

DESIGN

This study was a prospective, single-arm, observational clinical study of patients enrolled between December 2005 and September 2010.

SETTINGS

This study was conducted at a referral hospital in Japan.

PATIENTS

Twenty-four consecutive patients with malignant colorectal obstruction were included in the study.

INTERVENTIONS

A double-wire woven uncovered stent was placed by use of a standard through-the-scope endoscopic placement technique.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Technical, initial clinical, and long-term clinical success were measured. Long-term clinical success was defined as sustained relief of obstructive symptoms without reintervention until the patient's death.

RESULTS

The Karnofsky performance status score before stent placement was 60 (median, interquartile range, 42.5-67.5). Twenty of 24 patients had primary colorectal cancer, and 4 had extracolorectal malignancies. The site of obstruction was the ascending colon in 10 patients, descending colon in 4 patients, sigmoid colon in 7 patients, and rectum in 3 patients. Technical, initial, and long-term clinical success rates were 100%, 100%, and 83%. Median stent patency time was 149 days (interquartile range, 45-198 days). Median survival time after stent placement was 155 days (interquartile range, 68-231 days). Four patients (17%) had negative outcomes including stent occlusion by tumor ingrowth (8%) and stent migration (8%). The highest Karnofsky performance status score after stent placement was 70 (median; interquartile range, 50-70). The Karnofsky performance status score improved after stent placement (p = 0.002).

LIMITATIONS

This study was limited because it was a single-arm, single-center study, and it had a small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic placement of double-wire woven uncovered stents is effective and safe as definitive palliative treatment for patients with malignant colorectal obstruction.

Self-Expanding Metal Stenting for Palliation of Patients with Malignant Colonic Obstruction: Effectiveness and Efficacy on 255 Patients with 12-Month's Follow-up

Background. Self-expanding metal stents can alleviate malignant colonic obstruction in incurable patients and avoid palliative stoma surgery. Objective. Evaluate stent effectiveness and safety on palliation of patients with malignant colorectal strictures. Design. Two prospective, one Spanish and one global, multicenter studies. Settings. 39 centers (22 academic, 17 community hospitals) from 13 countries. Patients. A total of 257 patients were enrolled, and 255 patients were treated with a WallFlex uncovered enteral colonic stent. Follow-up was up to 12 months or until death or retreatment. Interventions(s). Self-expanding metal stent placement. Main Outcome Measures. Procedural success, clinical success, and safety. Results. Procedural success was 98.4% (251). Clinical success rates were 87.8% at 30 days, 89.7% at 3 months, 92.8% at 6 months, and 96% at 12 months. Overall perforation rate was 5.1%. Overall migration rate was 5.5%. Overall death rate during follow-up was 48.6% (124), with 67.7% of deaths related to the patient's colorectal cancer, unrelated in 32.3%. Only 2 deaths were related to the stent or procedure. Limitations. No control group. Conclusions. The primary palliative option for patients with malignant colonic obstruction should be self-expanding metal stent placement due to high rates of technical success and efficacy in symptom palliation and few complications.

The learning curve for colorectal stent insertion for the treatment of malignant colorectal obstruction

Background/Aims

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) insertion by evaluating the learning curve in relation to the experience of an endoscopist.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of 120 SEMS insertion procedures performed by one endoscopist in patients with malignant colorectal obstruction. We compared the technical and clinical success rates, complication rates, and duration of the procedures by quartiles.

Results

The mean age of the patients (76 men and 44 women) was 64.6 years. The overall technical success rate was 95.0% (114/120), and the clinical success rate was 90.0% (108/120). The median procedure duration was 16.2 minutes (range, 3.4 to 96.5 minutes). From the first to the last quartile, the technical success rates were 90.0%, 96.7%, 96.7%, and 96.7% (p=0.263), and the clinical success rates were 90.0%, 90.0%, 96.7%, and 83.3% (p=0.588), respectively. Procedure-related complications were observed in 28 patients (23.3%). The complication rates for SEMS insertion when patients were divided by quartiles were 26.7%, 23.3%, 10.0%, and 33.3% (p=0.184), respectively. Moreover, the number of stents per procedure was 1.13, 1.03, 1.00, and 1.00 (p=0.029), respectively. The median duration of SEMS insertion decreased significantly, 20.9 to 14.8 minutes after the first 30 procedures (p=0.005).

Conclusions

An experienced endoscopist was able to perform the SEMS insertion procedure easily and effectively after performing 30 SEMS insertions.

Palliative management for patients with subacute obstruction and stage IV unresectable rectosigmoid cancer: colostomy versus endoscopic stenting: final results of a prospective randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Survival in patients with stage IV unresectable rectosigmoid cancer is significantly reduced, and when patients are seen with symptoms of obstruction, it is advisable to perform a diverting colostomy before acute obstruction occurs. The aim of this study was to compare the results of endoscopic stent placement with diverting proximal colostomy in patients with stage IV rectosigmoid cancer and symptoms of chronic subacute obstruction.

METHODS

In a prospective randomized trial, 22 patients with stage IV unresectable rectosigmoid cancer and symptoms of chronic subacute obstruction were randomized to either endoscopic placement of an expandable stent or diverting proximal colostomy. Patients were followed until death.

RESULTS

There was no case of mortality or major postoperative complications. Oral feeding and bowel function were restored within 24 hours after endoscopic stent placement and within 72 hours after diverting colostomy. Hospital stays were shorter (mean, 2.6 days) in patients with endoscopic stent placement than in those with diverting stomas (mean, 8.1 days) (P < .05). Mean long-term survival was 297 days (range, 125-612 days) in patients who had stents and 280 days (range, 135-591 days) in patients with stomas (P = NS). No case of mortality during follow-up was related to the procedures. All patients with stomas found them quite unacceptable. The same feelings were present in family members. None of the patients with stents or their family members found any inconvenience about the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic expandable stent placement offers a valid solution in patients with stage IV unresectable cancer and symptoms of chronic subacute obstruction, with shorter hospital stays. The procedure is much better accepted, psychologically and practically, by patients and their family members.

Colorectal stenting for malignant obstruction: an 8-year clinical experience

BACKGROUND

  A substantial percentage of patients with colorectal cancer present with obstructive symptoms. In such patients, surgery is often required and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Colorectal stenting is an increasingly commonplace alternative with potentially fewer risks than open surgery. We present our clinical experience over an 8-year period with colorectal stenting in a major tertiary Australian hospital.

METHODS

  From 2000 to 2008, patients undergoing colorectal stenting were identified via medical records. Clinical data collected included patient demographics, tumour type, extent of metastatic disease, stent characteristics, technical and clinical success, acute and chronic complications, and long-term follow-up status.

RESULTS

  Thirty-five patients (69 ± 13 years, 25 male) received a total of 39 stents. Technical success was achieved in 37 (95%), and clinical relief of obstruction was achieved in 34 (89%). One case was complicated by perforation at the time of procedure and three cases experienced delayed perforation. Reintervention was required in 17% of patients, all of whom had less than 50% hepatic volume replacement by metastatic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

  Colorectal stenting is a feasible and safe alternative for patients presenting with obstructive symptoms but the benefit may be restricted to patients with a short expected survival.