Author Archives: Ian S. Grimm, Todd H. Baron

Endoscopic stenting is the treatment of choice for palliation of malignant obstructive jaundice in patients with inoperable cancer. Plastic and self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are equally effective for initial relief of extrahepatic biliary obstruction, with technical success of >90%. Stent type has no impact on adverse events or overall survival. Therefore, the prime considerations in stent choice are costs and quality of life. To determine which type of stent is most effective and economical, Walter et al1 conducted the largest randomized, controlled trial addressing this question, published in this issue of Gastroenterology. Continue reading →