[Transnasal and transanal tube decompression versus self-expanding metallic stent as a bridge to surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer].

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy between the use of transnasal and transanal tube decompression and self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) as a bridge to surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer. MATERIALS: Of a total of 42 patients with obstructive colorectal cancer, 29 were managed with transnasal or transanal tubes and 13 were managed by SEMS. RESULTS: The management duration to surgery in the stent group was longer than that in the tube group (18 vs 11 days; p<.05). More patients in the stent group could be discharged and take food or liquid normally. There was no difference in overall complications including anastomotic leakage, surgical side effects, or primary anastomosis. Perforation occurred in 2 patients in the tube group, while stent migration occurred in 1 patient in the stent group. There was no difference in complications between 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS: SEMS as a bridge to surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer could improve patients' quality of life during the preoperative period. Evaluations of the complications during decompression are needed for both methods.