Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-12 Origin: Site
Yes, ERCP stenting is generally effective for managing malignant intestinal obstructions, especially those involving the bile duct, pancreatic duct, or duodenum caused by cancers such as:
Pancreatic cancer
Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer)
Gallbladder cancer
Metastatic cancers compressing the ducts or duodenum
Symptom relief: It effectively relieves jaundice, biliary obstruction, pruritus, and digestive discomfort.
Minimally invasive: Avoids or delays the need for surgical bypass, which carries higher risks and longer recovery.
Palliative care benefit: Improves quality of life in patients with inoperable or advanced cancers.
Quick recovery: Most patients experience rapid improvement in symptoms within days.
Not curative – It is a palliative intervention, meant to relieve symptoms rather than treat the cancer itself.
Stent occlusion – Tumor ingrowth or biofilm/sludge may re-block the stent over time.
Requires follow-up – Especially for plastic stents, which may need replacement every 3–6 months.
| Type of Stent | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic | Cheaper, easier to replace | Shorter patency (1–3 months), higher clogging rate |
| SEMS (Self-Expanding Metal Stents) | Longer-lasting (6–12 months), larger diameter | Higher cost, harder to remove (especially uncovered types) |
Studies show SEMS stents have higher patency rates and fewer reinterventions in malignant cases.
In unresectable malignancies, stenting significantly reduces hospitalization and improves overall comfort.
Would you like help choosing between plastic and metal stents based on a specific case scenario?
