A Prospective Trial of a New Self-Expanding Plastic Stent for Malignant Esophageal Obstruction

We studied a new expandable plastic stent in the palliation of malignant esophageal obstruction. Eight patients with malignant esophageal obstruction and dysphagia were studied. An expandable covered plastic stent made of polyester netting and covered with a silicone membrane was inserted and released into the stenosis. Relief of dysphagia and functional status were measured. The stent was successfully inserted in all eight patients. The median dysphagia score dropped from 3 (able to eat liquids only) to 1 (some dysphagia with solid food), and seven of the eight patients had an improvement of at least two grades of dysphagia. Mean survival was 87 days (range 17–226). Stent migration occurred in one patient after 50 days; stent occlusion due to tumor ingrowth was not seen. A low cost (approximately $400) expandable plastic stent has been developed that is safe and effective in the palliation of malignant esophageal obstruction. Large randomized trials comparing this stent to expandable metal stents are warranted.