Overview

GI stenting is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure that helps clear blockages in the gastrointestinal tract. A stent is a small metal or plastic tube that can be expanded and placed inside a blocked or narrowed area to keep it open and allow food or digestive contents to pass through normally. People often use GI stents in the small intestine, colon, bile ducts, oesophagus, or stomach outlet. Tumours, strictures, inflammation, or scar tissue can all cause blockages. Most of the time, endoscopy and imaging are used to guide the procedure. In many cases, GI stenting quickly relieves symptoms without the need for major surgery.

Why It's Done
GI stenting is done to fix a narrowing or blockage that makes it hard to swallow, vomit, have stomach pain, or have a bowel obstruction. People with digestive tract cancers often use it to help them swallow or have a bowel movement. In some cases, it is only a temporary solution until surgery can be done. The goal is to restore normalcy and improve the quality of life.

What to Expect?
Before the procedure, patients undergo imaging tests such as CT scans, endoscopies, or X-rays to determine the location and severity of the blockage. You have to fast for a few hours. During the procedure, either sedation or general anaesthesia is given. Depending on where the blockage is, an endoscope is put in through the mouth or the rectum. A guidewire is put through the narrow spot, and the stent is put on top of it. The stent opens the blocked part once it is in place. The procedure usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. After that, doctors monitor patients for any problems or pain. Changes to your diet may be suggested, especially if you have an oesophageal stent.

Recovery & Outlook
Most people recover quickly, and many of them feel better right away. At first, you might feel a little uncomfortable. GI stenting works well to improve swallowing or bowel function and lower the risk of complications related to blockages, especially in patients who are at high risk for surgery.