Endoscopic stenting

Endoscopic stenting is a medical procedure by which a stent, a hollow device designed to prevent contriction or collapse of a tubular organ, is inserted by endoscopy. They are usually inserted when a disease process has led to narrowing or obstruction of the organ in question, such as the esophagus or the colon.

Endoscopic stents are commonly referred to as self-expandable metallic stents (SEMS). SEMS "play an important role in the management of malignant obstructing lesions in the gastrointestinal tract."

A stent may be inserted into the common bile duct during an ERCP, especially if gallstone removal is deemed too risky.