The Stent as Bridge to Surgery in Patients with Malignant Large Bowel Obstruction

Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) have been used in the management of colorectal obstruction as an alternative to emergency surgery. The stent as bridge to surgery is a preoperative modality for the relief of acute obstruction so that resection can be done on an elective basis after stabilization of the acute illness and bowel preparation. Using PubMed, a literature search regarding the outcomes, mortality, morbidity and long-term prognosis of SEMS's use as a bridge to surgery in colorectal obstruction was undertaken.
Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Source Type: research