Self-expanding metal stents for cholangiocarcinoma: higher clinical success rates but also higher stent-specific adverse events

This retrospective study analyzes the optimal biliary stenting strategy for palliation in cholangiocarcinoma patients. It found that self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) and plastic stents (PS) within SEMS had higher clinical success rates but also higher stent-specific adverse events. Removing PS may facilitate percutaneous biliary drainage (PTBD). Double-pigtail stents had fewer complications compared to straight PS. Cases with balloon dilation and pus on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography benefited from earlier reintervention. A higher bismuth class, PS use, and PS within SEMS were associated with shorter mean time to repeat PTBD.