Airway stenting for unresectable esophageal cancer

Abstract

Because of the close anatomical relationship between the upper esophagus and the tracheobronchial tree, many patients with advanced esophageal cancer will suffer from airway complications. These include airway stenosis or esophago-respiratory fistulation. Airway stenting is proven to offer effective palliation for patients with both these complications. When managing such patients, the thoracic surgeon faces different options in terms of pre-stenting investigation, choice of stents and stenting strategy. Although airway stenting is a safe and effective procedure in experienced hands, there are nonetheless complications which await the unwary. This review discusses the currently available options for airway stenting in these patients, and offers practical advice on avoiding the pitfalls.