What is stenting of the pylorus?

Stenting of the pylorus refers to placing a small tube or stent in the opening between the stomach and the small intestine (the pylorus) to keep it open. It is done to treat problems such as:

- Pyloric stenosis - This is a narrowing or tightening of the pyloric opening that blocks food from emptying out of the stomach. Pyloric stenosis is usually a congenital condition in infants, but can sometimes occur in adults after surgery or chronic peptic ulcer disease. 

- Gastric outlet obstruction - This occurs when a tumor, peptic ulcer disease, or inflammation causes a blockage of the stomach outlet. Food struggles to pass into the small intestine.

- Delayed gastric emptying - Disorders like gastroparesis can impair the normal spontaneous emptying of food from the stomach. 

The pyloric stent holds the pyloric channel open to allow food to pass through into the small intestine. This helps relieve symptoms like vomiting, nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain.

 The stent procedure is performed endoscopically by passing the stent through the mouth and stomach to reach the pyloric opening. It can provide temporary relief until surgery can be performed to correct the underlying problem. Stents may also be placed for palliative treatment in inoperable obstructions from cancer. The stent is typically removable later on.