Indications and results of endoscopic rectal stenting.

Self expandable metal stents (SEMS) are a useful option to diverting colostomy for the palliation of malignant rectal obstruction. SEMS can be successfully placed in approximately 90% of cases with acceptable complication rates. Covered SEMS allow closure of malignant rectovaginal and rectovesical fistulae associated with rectal obstruction. The main drawback to these devices is the inability to palliate bleeding.