In a stent in esophagus procedure, the placement of a tube inside the stomach (throat) opens an obstruction. The tube aids in swallowing liquids and solids.
The esophagus is the muscular tube that connects the mouth’s back and your stomach. If you swallow food, your muscles in the esophagus relax. They push food through the stomach.
Numerous health conditions can hinder a section of your stomach. This can make it difficult to swallow. The term used for it is dysphagia. It is possible that you experience pain when you swallow or feel as if food particles are getting stuck inside your chest. Food particles may come back up when you swallow. A stent for the esophagus can open the esophagus, which is blocked, and reduce symptoms.
The procedure could be performed with general or conscious anesthesia. If the procedure is performed with general anesthesia you’ll rest throughout the procedure without feeling any discomfort. If the procedure is performed in a state of conscious sedation you’ll be given medications that will make you more relaxed and sleepy. The surgeon might anesthesia the area of surgery to ensure that you don’t experience any discomfort.
The surgeon inserts a thin, long tube (catheter) in the inside of your mouth, and then into the stomach. Then, the surgeon inserts a hollow tube that is folded up (stent) on top of the catheter to ensure it is in the right location across the blockage. The stent will expand against the esophagus’s walls and provide the necessary support. The surgeon then takes the catheter out and then leaves the stent in its place.
What is the reason I may require an esophageal Stent procedure?
It is possible that you require an esophageal stent to treat many health issues. In the past, doctors have the most frequently used esophageal-stents to treat cancer of the esophageal tract. This is the most commonly used reason. However, stents can also be utilized to treat:
- Cancer of the upper part of the stomach
- Esophagus narrowing due to its being pushed out away from the inside by tumor (such as cancer of the lung) or lymph nodes that are enlarged
- Esophagus narrowing as a result of an ulcer
- Esophagus narrowing due to radiation therapy
- An abnormal opening between the throat (windpipe) and the esophagus
- A perforation in the esophagus.
All of these health issues could cause dysphagia. Dysphagia is a serious issue because it could lead to aspiration. Aspiration is when you breathe stomach contents and food into your lungs. It can cause problems such as pneumonia. Dysphagia can also reduce the quality of your living. The esophageal stent may help alleviate these issues.
Even if you’re suffering from an esophageal tumor, you might not require an esophageal stent. In some instances, the healthcare professional could be able to treat your cancer through chemotherapy or surgery in lieu. If the treatments don’t perform for you, and esophageal or stent could be a viable alternative. In other situations, the gastrostomy tube or jejunostomy tube may be more appropriate for you. These tubes are connected from your abdomen’s outer part to the stomach or small intestine. Discuss with your doctor regarding all treatment options.
What are the dangers of the esophageal stent procedure?
Esophageal stents are generally secure. However, they may result in problems later. This could include:
- Esophagus pain
- Bleeding (usually mild)
- New esophagus hole (rare)
- The stent moves
- The growth of the tumor to the stent
- Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD also known as heartburn)
There is also a chance that you’ll require another procedure due to one of these issues. Your risk of needing a repeat procedure may vary according to the nature of your esophageal condition as well as your other health concerns and the type of stent you are using. Consult your physician about your questions.
How can I prepare for an Esophageal Stent procedure?
Discuss with your doctor what you can do to prepare. It is possible that you will need to avoid eating or drinking prior to your procedure. Follow the advice of your doctor on what medications to use or not to take prior to your procedure. Do not stop taking any medication unless the doctor recommends it. You should arrange for someone to drive you home.
Inform your doctor about the following issues:
- If you have any allergies or had problems in the past related to anesthesia
- Any health concerns that have not been addressed such as the recent onset of a fever
- If you are pregnant or could be pregnant, you should consult your doctor.
- Every medicine you consume, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements.
Your physician may request certain tests prior to the procedure. This could include an oral swallow test using barium. It could provide additional information on the anatomy and function of the stomach. Prior to surgery, you might be given an IV. The IV can provide medicine to you throughout the procedure.
What is the outcome of an esophageal stent procedure?
Your physician will tell you what you can be expecting. The specifics of your procedure could differ. It usually takes about an hour. In general, you can anticipate these:
- If you’re suffering from conscious sedation, the medication will be administered through an IV to help you feel relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. It is also possible to have medication to numb the throat’s back. It’s possible you won’t remember the procedure afterward.
- If you’re suffering from general anesthesia, medication is administered via an IV, which will make you feel comfortable and peacefully asleep.
- During the procedure, your blood pressure, heart rate as well as other vital indicators are closely monitored. If needed, you might get extra oxygen. Your doctor may employ continuous X-ray images to observe the procedure. In other situations, they may utilize a long, thin device that has a tiny camera (endoscope).
- The physician will gradually insert a catheter into your mouth, and then into your stomach.
- The doctor will then move the esophageal stent that has been folded across the catheter to the location of the blockage. The stent is typically constructed of either plastic or metal. It then opens against the wall of the esophagus.
- Once the procedure is completed, the doctor will then remove the catheter from the stomach. The stent will remain in its place.
What happens following an esophageal Stent procedure?
Typically, an esophageal Stent implant is an operation that is performed in an outpatient setting. It is expected to stay for a few hours during which your vital indicators are monitored. You’ll need to rest throughout the day. In other instances, it is possible to remain in the hospital for the night.
There may be some discomfort following your procedure. However, it’s not likely to last more than a week or two. There is an over-the-counter pain medication in case you require these.
Your doctor will give you specific directions on when you can take food and drink again. The doctor could also provide you with other specific guidelines regarding the recovery process. Keep following up on a regular basis. Tell your physician promptly of any new issues, such as an illness that causes fever, and acid (gastroesophageal) reflux. It is possible that you require intervention due to an issue, like food blocking in the stent or the stent’s movement.