Oesophageal Stent Insertion: An oesophageal stent insertion is a procedure used to treat a narrowing or blockage in the oesophagus (gullet), the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. A small metal mesh tube (stent) is placed in the oesophagus to hold it open, allowing food and liquids to pass more easily.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Oesophageal Stent Insertion |
| Department | Interventional Radiology |
| Author(s) | Cathie Tenreiro - IR Clinical Specialist Nurse |
| Review Date | April 2026 |
| Next Review | April 2029 |
| Download | A4 Handout PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
Introduction
This leaflet provides information about the procedure, what to expect on the day, the potential risks and important information for afterwards.
Prior to the procedure, you will have a telephone consultation, where you will have the opportunity to ask further questions.
Please note that this leaflet is not meant to replace discussion between you and your doctor. You should raise any questions you may have with the doctor who has referred you or with the doctor who will be performing the procedure.
What is an oesophageal stent?
An oesophageal stent insertion is a procedure used to treat a narrowing or blockage in the oesophagus (gullet), the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
A small metal mesh tube (stent) is placed in the oesophagus to hold it open, allowing food and liquids to pass more easily.
The procedure is usually performed using X-ray guidance, often combined with endoscopy (a flexible camera), to accurately position the stent.
Oesophageal stents are most used to relieve difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), often caused by a tumour or narrowing.
Why do I need an oesophageal stent?
You may be offered an oesophageal stent if you have difficulty swallowing due to a narrowing in your oesophagus.
Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty swallowing food or liquids
- Food getting stuck
- Weight loss
- Regurgitation of food
A stent can help improve swallowing, allowing you to eat and drink more comfortably and improving your quality of life.
How do I prepare for an oesophageal stent?
You will have a pre-assessment telephone consultation with a nurse before your admission and may be asked to have blood tests before the procedure.
You should stop eating 6 hours prior the procedure, however you can drink 1 cup of clear water per hour until the procedure starts.
The procedure will take place in the Interventional Radiology (IR), within the Radiology Department at St. Peter’s Hospital. When you arrive, you will be given a hospital gown to change into, and a nurse will insert an IV cannula.
The doctor will discuss the procedure with you; answer any questions you may have and ask you to sign a consent form if you are happy to proceed.
The procedure will likely be performed under local anaesthetic. Intravenous pain relief and light sedation may also be given, to ensure you are as comfortable as possible.
If you are feeling unwell closer to the day of the procedure, please let the team know.
How is an oesophageal stent performed?
You will usually lie on an X-ray table.
The procedure is performed using X-ray guidance, often combined with an endoscope (a flexible camera passed through the mouth into the oesophagus).
A thin tube is guided into the oesophagus, and contrast dye is used to identify the narrowing. A guidewire is passed across the narrowed area.
The stent is then positioned across the narrowing and released. It expands to open the oesophagus and allow food and liquids to pass through.
The procedure usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
What are the potential risks / complications of an oesophageal stent?
Oesophageal stent insertion is a commonly performed and generally safe procedure. However, as with all medical procedures, there are some risks:
Chest pain or discomfort
- Common (up to 40-60%)
- Usually occurs after the stent expands
- Typically improves over a few days with pain relief
Stent migration (movement)
- Occurs in approximately 10-20% of patients
- May require repositioning or replacement
Recurrent swallowing difficulty (re-blockage)
- Occurs in around 10-30% of cases over time
- May be due to tumour growth or food blockage
- Further treatment may be required
Bleeding
- Minor bleeding can occur and usually settles without treatment
- Significant bleeding is uncommon (<1-2%)
Perforation (tear in the oesophagus)
- Occurs in approximately 1-5% of patients
- This is a serious complication and may require urgent treatment
Reflux (acid coming back up)
- Can occur, particularly if the stent is placed near the stomach
- May require medication
Aspiration (food or fluid entering the airway)
- Risk is increased in some patients
- Dietary advice is important to reduce this risk
Infection
- Uncommon (<1-2%)
- May require antibiotics
Failure to place the stent
- In around 5-10% of cases, the stent cannot be safely positioned
Radiation exposure
- The procedure uses X-ray guidance
- Radiation dose is kept as low as reasonably achievable
What happens afterwards?
After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area.
- Your blood pressure, pulse, and comfort will be monitored
- You will gradually be allowed to start drinking fluids
- Your diet will be slowly reintroduced, starting with soft foods
You should:
- Follow dietary advice (soft diet is usually recommended)
- Eat slowly and chew food well
- Drink fluids with meals to help swallowing
- Remain upright when eating and for a short time afterwards
Seek urgent medical advice if you experience:
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Follow-up
Follow-up will be arranged with your referring team to monitor your symptoms and ongoing care.
Contact Details
Interventional Radiology
St Peter’s Hospital
Tel: 01932 723470
Email:
