Metal Stent Insertion for Malignant Obstruction of a Colostomy

Abstract

A 47-year-old female with metastatic cervical cancer and diverting colostomy presented with abdominal distention and minimal stool output from her colostomy. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a metastatic mass causing partial obstruction at the colostomy level and significant proximal colonic dilation. Her obstruction was relieved by the endoscopic placement of a metal stent through the stoma, with the stent’s distal edge visible externally but not protruding beyond skin level. Two months later, the stent remained patent and did not migrate. This case highlights a viable palliative treatment option for patients who are not operative candidates.