Stenting

Amazing Facts about Stenting

• History of Stenting: The first stents were implanted in 1986 in Switzerland by Ulrich Sigwart and in France by Jacques Puel. These self-expanding mesh designs were followed by coil stents, first implanted at Emory University Hospital in 1987, and slotted tube designs, first implanted in São Paulo, Brazil, the same year. (Source)

• Multiple Uses: Stents are commonly used in cardiovascular interventions to treat blockages in arteries, but they are also used in other areas of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract, brain and lungs. (Source)

• Development in the field: The development of drug-eluting stents has significantly reduced the risk of restenosis (re-narrowing) after the procedure by releasing medication to prevent excessive tissue growth. (Source)

• Minimially Invasive: Advances in stent technology have made it possible to deliver stents through minimally invasive techniques, reducing the need for open surgery and improving patient outcomes. (Source)

4 Reasons for Early Treatment of Obstruction in GI tract

1. Prevention of Complications: Obstruction in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can lead to various complications, such as bowel perforation, infection, or ischemia (reduced blood supply). Early treatment can help prevent these complications from occurring or worsening.
2. Alleviation of Symptoms: Obstruction in the GI tract often causes symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Early treatment can help alleviate these symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.
3. Restoration of Normal Function: Obstruction in the GI tract disrupts the normal flow of food, liquids, and waste through the digestive system. Early treatment aims to restore the normal function of the GI tract by removing the obstruction and allowing proper passage of contents.
4. Identification and Treatment of Underlying Causes: Obstruction in the GI tract can have various underlying causes, such as tumors, strictures, adhesions, or inflammatory conditions. Early treatment allows for a thorough evaluation to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

Complications of Untreated Obstruction in GI tract

1. Bowel Perforation
2. Intestinal Ischemia
3. Malnutrition and Dehydration
4. Bowel Obstruction

Celebrities who have suffered from Bowel Obstruction/ Perforation

Matthew Perry

Pat Sajak 

What is Stenting

Procedure of Gastrointestinal Stenting

1. Preparatory Measures: The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include fasting and intravenous medications for sedation or pain management.
2. Guided Insertion: Using endoscopy or fluoroscopy, a specialized endoscope or catheter with the stent is inserted into the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Placement and Expansion: The stent is carefully positioned in the narrowed or blocked area and expanded to open up the passage.
4. Confirmation and Recovery: The proper positioning and functionality of the stent are confirmed through imaging, and the patient is monitored during the recovery period.

Who needs Stenting

1. Esophageal Strictures: Stenting can be used to alleviate narrowing of the esophagus caused by conditions like esophageal cancer, strictures, or scarring.
2. Bile Duct Obstructions: Stenting is employed to treat blockages in the bile ducts caused by gallstones, tumors, or strictures.
3. Colonic Strictures: Stenting can be used to relieve narrowing of the colon due to conditions like colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or strictures.
4. Gastrointestinal Fistulas: Stenting may be used to close abnormal connections between different parts of the gastrointestinal tract, promoting healing.
5. Gastrointestinal Bleeding: In certain cases, stenting can help control bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, providing immediate relief.

How to prepare for Stenting

• Medical evaluation: Your healthcare provider will conduct a thorough evaluation of your medical history and perform a physical examination. They may order additional tests, such as blood work, imaging studies, or endoscopic procedures, to assess your condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
• Medication review: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. They will provide guidance on which medications should be continued or temporarily stopped before the procedure.
• Fasting: You will be instructed to fast for a certain period before the stenting procedure. Typically, you will need to refrain from eating or drinking anything, including water, for a specific duration before the procedure. Your healthcare provider will provide clear instructions on fasting guidelines based on the specific stenting procedure being performed.
• Bowel preparation: For certain GI procedures, such as stenting of the colon or rectum, bowel preparation may be necessary. This involves clearing the intestines of stool to improve visualization and facilitate the procedure. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how to prepare and which bowel cleansing method to use.
• Allergy assessment: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies, especially to medications or contrast agents used during the procedure. This is important to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent allergic reactions.
• Discussion of risks and benefits: Your healthcare provider will explain the potential risks and benefits of the stenting procedure, as well as any alternative treatment options. It is important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have before giving your informed consent for the procedure.
• Arrange transportation: Depending on the type of sedation or anesthesia used during the procedure, you may not be able to drive yourself home afterward. Make arrangements for a responsible adult to accompany you to the procedure and drive you home afterward.

Benefits of Stenting

1. Symptom Relief: Stenting effectively relieves symptoms associated with strictures or blockages, such as difficulty swallowing, abdominal pain, or bowel obstruction.
2. Improved Quality of Life: By restoring the normal flow of food, bile, or stool, stenting enhances the patient’s ability to eat, digest, and eliminate waste, leading to improved quality of life.
3. Minimally Invasive Approach: Gastrointestinal stenting is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, resulting in shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and reduced post-operative complications.

Risks of Stenting

1. Temporary Solution: Stenting may provide temporary relief and may need to be replaced or removed at a later stage.
2. Risk of Complications: Although rare, potential complications associated with stenting include stent migration, blockage, perforation, or infection.
3. Not Suitable for All Cases: Stenting may not be appropriate for all gastrointestinal conditions, and the decision to undergo the procedure is based on individual patient factors and disease characteristics.

What to do after Stenting

• Recovery period: You will be monitored in a recovery area until you are fully awake and stable. The length of your stay in the recovery area will vary depending on the specific procedure and your individual condition. Nurses and healthcare providers will closely observe your vital signs and ensure you are comfortable.
• Follow-up appointments: Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress after the stenting procedure. It is important to attend these appointments and discuss any concerns or questions you may have. They will evaluate the effectiveness of the stent and address any potential complications or side effects.
• Medication management: Your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage pain, prevent infection, or control other symptoms. Take the prescribed medications as directed and inform your healthcare provider of any adverse reactions or difficulties you may experience.
• Diet and activity: Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding your diet and activity level after the stenting procedure. They may recommend dietary modifications, such as a soft or liquid diet, to allow the stent to properly function. Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting as advised to prevent any strain on the stent.
• Hydration: Adequate hydration is essential for your recovery. Drink plenty of fluids as recommended by your healthcare provider to stay hydrated and support healing.
• Signs of complications: Be aware of any signs or symptoms that may indicate a complication or problem with the stent. This can include severe pain, fever, persistent bleeding, difficulty swallowing, or changes in bowel movements. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Lifestyle modifications: Depending on the underlying condition and reason for the stenting procedure, your healthcare provider may recommend certain lifestyle modifications to improve your overall health. This may include changes in diet, exercise, smoking cessation, or medication adjustments. Follow these recommendations to optimize your recovery and prevent further complications.