Esophageal stenting

Esophageal stenting is a procedure used to place a stent, which is a flexible mesh tube placed through the constricted area of your esophagus. The work of a stent is to gently expand and open the narrowed area of the esophagus to make swallowing foods easier.

The esophageal stenting procedure usually requires both endoscopic and fluoroscopic guidances. Indications for esophageal stenting can be a variety of problems, most commonly malignant dysphagia. It is also needed in the case of treatment of esophageal fistulas, leaks and perforations.

You will need to manage an esophageal stenting diet after the procedure because the stent will not be as wide or as flexible as a normal esophagus. Therefore, you will need to take care of yourself with certain foods and the way of eating to prevent blocking the stent. You will be suggested to chew the food properly and avoid foods that can be difficult to break down, despite chewing.

Esophageal stenting recovery may take some time. It is important to follow the steps directed by your doctor. The stent often takes 48 to 72 hours for complete deployment. You can feel some pain because of stent expansion, but it is normal and subsides after 72 hours.