[Current Status of Colonic Stent Placement for Obstructive Colorectal Cancer in an Aging Society].

BACKGROUND

In the context of Japan's rapidly aging population, establishing optimal treatment strategies for elderly patients with colorectal cancer(CRC)remains a pressing clinical concern. Colonic self-expandable metallic stent(SEMS) placement has gained recognition as a viable option for managing obstructive CRC, including in elderly individuals.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 162 patients who underwent SEMS placement for primary obstructive CRC between 2015 and 2024. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were compared between elderly and non-elderly cohorts.

RESULT: Elderly patients were more likely to have poor performance status and a history of dementia; however, the outcomes of SEMS placement and subsequent surgical intervention were comparable to those observed in non-elderly patients. Primary tumor resection following bridge to surgery (BTS) was associated with improved overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

SEMS placement serves as a versatile and effective treatment strategy, particularly in elderly patients with diverse clinical profiles. Our findings suggest that primary tumor resection after BTS may contribute to improved survival, supporting the clinical significance of this treatment strategy.