Endoscopic Stent Placement

Advanced Treatment for Gastrointestinal Obstructions

What is Endoscopic Stent Placement?

Endoscopic Stent Placement is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat blockages or narrowing (strictures) in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, including the esophagus, bile ducts, colon, and small intestine. A stent is a small, expandable tube made of metal or plastic that helps keep the affected area open, allowing food, fluids, or bile to pass through smoothly.

At Central Gastro, we provide expert endoscopic stent placement using advanced technology and techniques to restore normal GI function and improve your quality of life.

When is Endoscopic Stent Placement Needed?

This procedure is commonly recommended for patients experiencing GI obstructions caused by:

• Esophageal Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus due to scarring, tumors, or inflammation.
• Bile Duct Blockages: Obstruction from gallstones, tumors, or pancreatic cancer.
• Colonic Strictures: Narrowing of the colon caused by cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or diverticular disease.
• Duodenal or Small Bowel Obstructions: Blockages due to benign or malignant conditions.
• Post-Surgical Complications: Obstructions or leaks following GI surgeries.

Stent placement may also be used as a palliative treatment to relieve symptoms caused by advanced cancers in the digestive system.

How is Endoscopic Stent Placement Performed?

The procedure is performed using an endoscope—a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera—to visualize the GI tract and accurately place the stent.

1. Preparation
   • Fasting for 6–8 hours before the procedure is required.
   • Sedation or anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort.
2. Procedure
   • The endoscope is carefully inserted through the mouth (for the esophagus, bile duct, or small intestine) or the rectum (for colonic strictures).
   • Using imaging guidance, the stent is deployed at the site of the blockage, expanding to open the narrowed area.
   • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on the location of the obstruction.
3. Recovery
   • After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedation wears off.
   • Most patients can return home the same day.

Benefits of Endoscopic Stent Placement

• Minimally Invasive: No need for major surgery; performed endoscopically.
• Quick Relief: Immediate improvement in symptoms like swallowing difficulty, pain, or bile flow obstruction.
• Faster Recovery: Shorter recovery time with minimal discomfort.
• Restores Functionality: Improves quality of life by allowing normal eating, digestion, or bile drainage.
• Palliative Care: Effective relief for patients with advanced GI cancers or strictures.

Conditions Treated with Stent Placement

1. Esophageal Stents
   • Treats strictures caused by cancer, GERD, or scarring.
   • Restores the ability to swallow solids and liquids.
2. Biliary Stents
   • Opens blocked bile ducts caused by stones, tumors, or pancreatic disorders.
   • Relieves symptoms like jaundice, itching, and pain.
3. Colonic Stents
   • Used to relieve obstructions in the large intestine, often caused by cancer or strictures.
   • Provides a bridge to surgery or as palliative care.
4. Duodenal and Small Bowel Stents
   • Treats blockages caused by tumors or strictures in the upper digestive tract.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• Dietary Instructions: You may need to start with liquids and soft foods, gradually returning to a normal diet.
• Monitoring Symptoms: Report any new or worsening symptoms, such as abdominal pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups ensure the stent is functioning properly and any necessary adjustments are made.