Bandolier 92 reported a meta-analysis of trials looking at a comparison of stents versus balloon angioplasty indicating stents to be better.
These include oesophageal stents - either rigid plastic or self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) and local tumor ablative techniques such as laser therapy.
The interventional technique used to treat carotid stenosis has improved and new stents and cerebral protection devices have been developed.
This article details the range of stents which are available and how these have revolutionized the treatment of vascular disease.
Stents are small metal tubes or wires that are inserted into damaged blood vessels to hold them open.
