Esophageal stenting for the palliation of malignant dysphagia

Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) are currently the standard for palliation of malignant dysphagia. Innovations in stent technology, including the advent of retrievable stents and the development of self-expanding plastic stents (SEPS), show promise to increase the possible applications for esophageal stents. This article reviews the indications and usage of both SEMS and SEPS in patients with malignant dysphagia as well as the potential complications of their use.