Using self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) as bridge-to-surgery improved outcomes for obstructive left colon cancer.

• One-year stoma rates were lower with SEMS (44.4%) compared to emergency surgery (73.4%).
• Fewer readmissions (4.2% vs 15.9%) and faster chemotherapy initiation (76.1% vs 55.8%) were noted with SEMS.

Consider SEMS for selected patients to reduce stoma rates and enhance quality of life post-treatment.

• Major morbidity and mortality rates were similar in both groups.