Self-expandable metal stents in patients with postoperative delayed gastric emptying after distal gastrectomy

Abstract

AIM To investigate the efficacy and safety of endoscopic stent insertion in patients with delayed gastric emptying after gastrectomy. METHODS In this study, we prospectively collected data from patients who underwent stent placement for delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after distal gastrectomy between June 2010 and April 2017, at a tertiary referral academic center. Clinical improvement, complications, and consequences after stent insertion were analyzed. RESULTS Technical success was achieved in all patients (100%). Early symptom improvement was observed in 15 of 20 patients (75%) and clinical success was achieved in all patients. Mean follow-up period was 1178.3 +/- 844.1 d and median stent maintenance period was 51 d (range 6-2114 d). During the follow-up period, inserted stents were passed spontaneously per rectum without any complications in 14 of 20 patients (70%). Symptom improvement was maintained after stent placement without the requirement of any additional intervention in 19 of 20 patients (95%). CONCLUSION Endoscopic stent placement provides prompt relief of obstructive symptoms. Thus, it can be considered an effective and safe salvage technique for post-operative DGE.