Introduction
Management of refractory benign esophageal strictures remains a challenge for clinicians. Randomized trials are needed to determine the optimal treatment strategy for patients with refractory and recurrent benign postcorrosive esophageal strictures.
Aim
The aim of this study was to evaluate the management of refractory postcorrosive esophageal stricture by fully covered self-expandable metal stent (SEMS) and also the optimum time for stent placement.
Patients and methods
This study was conducted in GIT Endoscopy Unit in Qena University Hospital from June 2014 to June 2016 in collaboration with General Surgery, Cardiothoracic Surgery, and Tropical Medicine Departments, Qena Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University. Eleven patients with refractory postcorrosive esophageal strictures were managed by dilations and fully covered SEMS placement.
Results
Successful stent placement was done in all patients. The mean follow-up time was 22 (12–26) months. Stent migrations occurred in two patients, and minor bleeding in one patient, with no mortality and no recurrences in dysphagia during the follow-up period.
Conclusion
Fully covered SEMSs are safe and effective in treatment of postcorrosive esophageal stricture, with optimum duration for stent placement range from 6 to 8 weeks.