The use of a retrievable self-expanding stent in treating childhood benign esophageal strictures

Abstract Background/Purpose Esophageal stenting is a popular form of treatment of esophageal strictures in adults but is not widely used in children. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether esophageal stents could be used safely and effectively in the treatment of esophageal stenosis in children. Methods Covered retrievable expandable nitinol stents were placed in 8 children with corrosive esophageal stenosis. The stents were removed 1 to 4 weeks after insertion. Results The stents were placed in all patients without complications and were later removed successfully. After stent placement, all patients could take solid food without dysphagia. Stent migration occurred in one patient and so the insertion procedure was repeated to reposition the stent. During the 3-month follow-up period after stent removal, all children could eat satisfactorily. After 6 months, 2 children required balloon dilation (3 times in one and 5 times in the other). The dysphagia score improved in all patients. Conclusions The use of the covered retrievable expandable stent is an effective and safe method in treating childhood corrosive esophageal stenosis.