Outcomes of patients with malignant esophagogastric junction obstruction receiving metallic stents: A single-center experience

Background: Malignancies-related esophagogastric junction (EGJ) obstruction is usually diagnosed in inoperable status with poor clinical outcomes. Metallic stent placement at EGJ could improve dysphagia for these patients. However, studies regarding the outcomes in these patients receiving metallic stents are still limited. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of metallic stent placement in malignant EGJ obstruction. Methods: Forty-one patients with inoperable malignant EGJ obstruction receiving metallic stent placement were retrospectively enrolled. The clinical outcomes between different stents and deployment techniques were analyzed. Results: The overall technical success rate was 97.6% and clinical success rate was 92.1%. The median overall survival time was 77 (4-893) days, and the patency time was 71 (4-893) days, respectively. Poststent radiotherapy significantly prolonged survival and stent patency. Between patients receiving uncovered or partially covered metal stents, there was no difference in procedure-related complications, survival time, and stent patency time. Moreover, the clinical outcomes in patients receiving duodenal stents for malignant EGJ obstruction are not inferior to those receiving esophageal stents. Conclusion: This study provides crucial information for endoscopists to establish individualized stenting strategies for malignant EGJ obstruction.