Endoscopic esophageal stenting in combination with chemoradiation therapy: A review

Abstract

Esophageal stenting is undoubtedly an effective method of choice for resolving malignant dysphagia in the presence of esophageal cancer. Nevertheless, the implantation of esophageal stents for malignant pathology is only a way to achieve adequate oral nutrition, which, unfortunately, does not increase the life expectancy in incurable patients. Early studies on the combination of chemoradiation therapy and stent implantation reported a relatively high rate of complications. Therefore, such therapeutic combinations have not been introduced into widespread practice. Nevertheless, to date, there is no convincing clinical data on the results of a combination of stenting methods and chemoradiation therapy, as well as their effect on the incidence of possible complications. Recent research has shown a very encouraging prospect. The combination of these techniques can increase life expectancy in incurable patients through continuous improvements in stent materials and designs.