Colonic Stent Placement

What does a colonic stent do?

Colonic stents are tiny tubes designed to prop open an obstruction in the colon (large intestine) which may allow you to digest fluid and food more easily and also to keep the colon from becoming obstructed again.

How is a colonic stent placed?

You will be given pain medication or a sedative. Your doctor will insert a colonoscope into your rectum and into your colon. A colonoscope is a flexible, thin lighted tube that allows your doctor to look inside your rectum and colon.

After the colonoscope is in place, a stent is then delivered through a catheter and placed in the obstruction in your colon. Once in position, the stent is opened and your obstruction is propped open.

Are there any risks to the procedure?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks and you should talk to your doctor about what they are. Your doctor will be able to explain the risks and answer any questions you may have. Potential complications include but are not limited to: perforation, bleeding, stent migration, and stent misplacement.

Recovery Period

Recovery times may vary depending on the disease symptoms that are being treated.

This reference text contains information about a specific procedure and is provided by Boston Scientific Corporation for reference only. Please talk to your doctor about complete procedural information, potential risks, and questions you may have.