What does a colon stent do?

A colon stent is a small tube that is inserted into the colon, typically to help keep the colon open in the case of a blockage or narrowing. Here are some of the main functions and purposes of a colon stent:

- Alleviate bowel obstruction - Colonic stents are often used to bypass blockages caused by cancer, scar tissue, diverticulitis, or other conditions that obstruct the colon. The stent helps keep the colon open so its contents can pass through.

- Bridge narrow sections - Stents can be placed to widen parts of the colon that have become too narrow, often from inflammation or cancer. This helps prevent future obstructions.

- Allow healing after surgery - Stents may be temporarily placed after certain colon surgeries to help the colon heal and prevent scarring that leads to strictures.

- Treat perforations - In some cases, a perforated colon can be treated with a stent rather than major surgery to seal the hole.

- Palliative treatment - For advanced colon cancer, stents can provide palliative relief of obstructive symptoms when surgery is not an option.

- Facilitate drainage - Stents can allow drainage of colonic contents when there is a stricture or obstruction. This can help relieve infection or inflammation.

- Reduce the risk of colostomy - By stenting rather than doing major surgery, sometimes the risk of needing a permanent colostomy can be reduced. 

Overall, colonic stents prop open the colon to allow passage of stool and gas when obstruction, narrowing, or perforation would otherwise prevent it. This provides symptomatic relief and aids healing.