Tracheobronchial Polyflex stents for the management of benign refractory hypopharyngeal strictures

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2012

Authors

Silva, RA (Author) Other; Mesquita, N (Author) Other; Pedro Pimentel-Nunes (Author) FMUP; Cardoso, E (Author) Other; Pinto, RM (Author) Other; Dias, LM (Author) Other

Journal

Title: World Journal of Gastroenterology

Vol. 18

Pages: 551-556

ISSN: 1007-9327

Publisher: Baishideng Publishing Group

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-D26

DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i6.551

Abstract (EN): AIM: To describe a modified technique for placement of a tracheobronchial self-expanding plastic stent (SEPS) in patients with benign refractory hypopharyngeal strictures in order to improve dysphagia and allow stricture remodeling. METHODS: A case series of four consecutive patients with complex hypopharyngeal strictures after combined therapy for laryngeal cancer, previously submitted to multiple sessions of dilation without lasting improvement, is presented. All patients underwent placement of a small diameter and unflared tracheobronchial SEPS. Main outcome measurements were improvement of dysphagia and avoiding of repeated dilation. RESULTS: The modified introducer system allowed an easy and technically successful deployment of the tracheobronchial Polyflex stent through the stricture. All four patients developed complications related to stent placement. Two patients had stent migration (one proximal and one distal), two patients developed phanryngocutaneous fistulas and all patients with stents in situ for more than 8 wk had hyperplastic tissue growth at the upper end of the stent. Stricture recurrence was observed at 4 wk follow-up after stent removal in all patients CONCLUSION: Although technically feasible, placement of a tracheobronchial SEPS is associated with a high risk of complications. Small diameter stents must be kept in place for longer than 3 mo to allow adequate time for stricture remodeling.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6