[The implantation of self-expanding metal prostheses (stents) into the bronchial system in central neoplasms].

This paper reports the use of an endobronchial metallic prosthesis (wall stent) for palliative management of 6 patients with central neoplasms and life-threatening airway obstruction. In five of six patients implantation of the stent resulted in improvement of their dyspnoea. However, functional data showed only a slight amelioration. In case of endobronchial growth, tumour may protrude easily through the meshwork of the stent. Therefore, use of the stent in these patients only seems appropriate if combination with other forms of therapy (radiation, laser) is possible. The easy feasibility of stent implantation and the lack of severe side effects and migration indicate that the stent may be an effective means in patients suffering from peribronchial tumour compression.