Long-term outcomes of 6 mm diameter of fully covered self-expandable metal stents in benign refractory pancreatic ductal stricture

Abstract

Objectives

Fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) placement has been tried for pancreatic ductal strictures in chronic pancreatitis. However, the long-term outcome of this procedure remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the procedural and long-term outcomes of FCSEMS placement in patients with benign refractory pancreatic ductal strictures.

Methods

Between August 2011 and September 2015, 18 patients underwent endoscopic treatment with FCSEMSs for a benign refractory pancreatic ductal stricture. Technical success, clinical success, radiological success, and adverse events were assessed.

Results

Stent placement was successful in all patients (technical success rate, 100%). A reduction in pain score of > 50% was achieved in 15 of the 18 patients (clinical success rate, 83.3%). In all patients, stents could be easily removed at a median of 7.5 months (interquartile range [IQR], 6-13.6) after their insertion. FCSEMSs migration did not develop in any patient. Ductal stricture was improved in 15 patients (radiological success rate, 83.3%). After definite stent removal, 13 of the 15 (86.7%) patients who had responded to pancreatic stenting maintained the response during follow-up (median of 47.3 months; IQR, 7.4-57.1).

Conclusions

FCSEMS placement appears to be safe and effective for the treatment of benign refractory pancreatic ductal strictures as it can provide persistent improvement in the stricture in the long-term follow-up.

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