Lumen apposing metal stents: A review of current uses and outcomes

Lumen-apposing metal stents (LAMS) represent a new innovation in gastrointestinal endoscopy. These devices have a saddle-shaped design and larger inner lumen diameter than either plastic or metal biliary stents, which should decrease the risk of migration and allows for an endoscope to pass into pancreatic fluid collections as well as the ability to perform direct endoscopic necrosectomy. LAMS were originally conceived and designed for transmural pancreatic fluid collection drainage but are currently also being used for many off label indications. There are three different LAMS available at this time around the globe. This manuscript will review the current state of the art with regards to LAMS and their indications, usage, and outcomes.