ABSTRACT
The use of self -expanding metal stents [SEMS] for palliation of malignant dysphagia is increasing. Early experience in 26 patients was included with respect to the value of stenting and management of complications encountered. SEMS were inserted in 26 patients [18 men and 8 women] of mean age 64.6 years with malignant esophageal obstruction. Data regarding stent insertion and score of dysphagia were gathered prospectively. The insertion of covered SEMS was successful in all 26 patients. Improvement in dysphagia grade by at least one grade was achieved in 96.2 percent of our patients. There were no mortality related to the procedure. Recurrent dysphagia was recorded in four cases [15.3 percent]. Two were due to stent migration and treated by another stenting. One was due to tumor overgrowth while the last was due to epithilial hyperplasia and treated by balloon dilation. Self -expanding metallic stents offer an excellent way of palliating dysphagia due to esophageal carcinoma with shorter hospital stay. It is usually successful, safe [minimal morbidity and mortality] and effective [ability to eat a near -normal diet]. Problems such as migration of the stent may be overcome by future improvements in stent design