Endoprotesi e trattamento chemio-radioterapico nei pazienti con carcinoma avanzato dell'esofago

Self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) are clearly indicated as the primary palliative therapy for patients affected by esophageal cancer who are not candidates for curative surgery. In addition there is increasing evidence which shows that prior chemoradiotheraphy (CRT) does not affect the safety and efficacy of SEMS placed to palliate obstruction from recurrent disease. Finally, the use of self expandable stents (SES) as a "bridge to surgery" with curative intent remains controversial and more data are needed to assess the safety and efficacy of this approach.