Self-expanding Polyflex plastic stents in esophageal disease:: various indications, complications, and outcomes

Background: Esophageal stenting has become an important technique in the treatment of different clincal problems such as malignant or benign stenosis, anastomotic leaks after surgery, or fistulas. In this study we present our experience with the self-expanding Polyflex plastic stent in various indications, arising complications, and patient's outcomes. Methods: Over a three-year period, 35 patients under-went self-expanding Polyflex plastic stent placement or esophageal stenosis (n = 23) with 22 malignant, and or perforations, fistulas, or anastomotic leaks after surgery (n = 12). The short-term efficacy and long-term outcomes were analyzed. Results: In patients with stenosis, implantation was performed without any complications in 91% (21/23). In one patient perforation occurred while passing the stenosis; in another patient the stent dislocated during the insertion procedure. Dysphagia score improved from 3.0 to 1.0 after stenting. In all patients with perforations, fistulas, or anastomotic leaks (n = 12), stents were placed successfully without any complication. Complete sealing of the mucosal defect was proven by radiography in 92% (n = 11) and healing was seen in 42% (n = 5). If indicated, stent removal was performed without any complications. Stent migration (n = 13; 37%) was the most common longterm complication. Conclusions: The placement of self-expanding Polyflex plastic stents is a highly sufficient and cost-effective treatment for malignant and benign esophageal disorders. Because the long-term results were highly favorable, self-expanding plastic stent placement could be used as the initial treatment for various conditions.