Self-expandable Metallic Stents in Pregnant Patients with Obstructing Colorectal Cancer

Excerpt

We applaud Lamazza and associates [1] for their exhaustive and didactic study on self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS) employed in patients with stage IV obstructing colorectal cancer (CRC). In particular, we appreciated the following topics: the higher feasibility, expedience, and safety of endoscopic stenting by passing the guide wire under direct vision (using a pediatric nasogastroscope) versus a blind positioning technique, its undoubtedly more positive psychoemotional effect on patients in comparison with a diverting colostomy, the need of surveillance for patients with SEMS in order to promptly recognize and profitably treat the obstruction secondary to fecal impaction, tumor ingrowth within the stent or its dislodgement with possible bleeding or perforation. …