Stents in the small intestine

Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma: A Rare but Aggressive Disease

Unlike the colon and rectum, the small intestine is associated with a very low rate of tumor occurrence. Adenocarcinomas represent the most frequent of these rare digestive tumors and are often fatal as a result of tardy diagnosis. Regardless of the stage, surgery usually remains the cornerstone of small bowel adenocarcinoma therapy. Because of the rarity of the disease, very few significant clinical trials have identified any efficient nonsurgical treatment; however, recent data indicate these tumors might be sensitive to chemotherapy alone or in association with radiation therapy. Conversely, a great deal of progress has been achieved in diagnosis of the tumor, whether by adaptation of existing techniques or development of new ones. We reviewed the clinical aspects of this rare but aggressive disease, focusing on new diagnostic procedures as well as on recent advances in their therapeutic management.

Recent advances in malignant bowel obstruction: an interface of old and new

Malignant bowel obstruction continues to be a difficult problem for patients with abdominal and pelvic primary tumors and tumors originating in other sites. The main treatment options consist of surgery, stenting, and pharmacotherapy. Despite recent advances, the impact of available treatment modalities on symptom control, longevity, quality of life, and associated health care costs have not been evaluated rigorously. This article reviews the available data and suggests an approach to the management of this challenging patient population.