Endoscopic Stent Placement

Overview

A stent is a device inserted in your body to treat an obstruction caused by a malignant (cancerous) tumor.

Stents are used within the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, bile duct, or other hollow organs or ducts of your digestive system. The stent is usually made of medical grade plastic or metal and is open at both ends so that food, liquid or body liquids can pass through.

How Is the Procedure Done?

Before the procedure, an IV will be placed in your arm and you will receive medication to help you relax.  

A long flexible tube with a light on the end (endoscope) will be passed through your mouth and into your esophagus, stomach, intestines or other organ. The endoscope will allow the surgeon to see inside your body and guide the stent to the chosen area.

The back of your throat will be sprayed with a local anesthetic to stop your gag reflex and to make it easier for the lighted flexible tube to be inserted. You will be monitored closely during the procedure.

Preparation

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure.
• Please notify the nurse or doctor if you have any allergies to medications.
• If you have diabetes and take insulin, on the morning of your exam, you should not take any regular insulin.

How Long Will the Procedure Take?

The test takes 1-2 hours. Afterwards, you will spend some time in the recovery room (until you are fully awake), so plan to be at the hospital for 3-4 hours total.

After the Exam

• Do not drive, operate machinery or ride a bicycle for at least 12 hours because you will still feel drowsy from your medication.
• Rest for the remainder of the day. You may still feel some of the effects of the medication and your judgment may be cloudy.
• Please bring someone with you to your appointment that can drive you home. You may not drive yourself home.