Development of ideal SEMS design

Publication date: Available online 25 March 2015 Source:Gastrointestinal Intervention Author(s): Hiroyuki Isayama , Yousuke Nakai , Tsuyoshi Hamada , Natsuyo Yamamoto , Kazuhiko Koike There are various types of self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) for biliary obstruction, but nobody knows which one is ideal. Ideal SEMS should prevent recurrent biliary obstruction or other complications after SEMS placement till the patient's death. In this review, risk factors for recurrent biliary obstruction or complications are discussed. Based on the current literature, the combination of high radial force and low axial force is important. SEMS should be a fully covered one with smooth inner surface to prevent stent occlusion by tumor ingrowth, sludge or food impaction. There are attempts to further prolong time to recurrent biliary obstruction: A large bore SEMS to prevent stent occlusion by sludge or a SEMS with anti-migration systems. Taking these results of various SEMSs into consideration, an ideal biliary SEMS should be further developed.

Source: Gastrointestinal Intervention - April 3, 2015 Category: Gastroenterology Source Type: research