Bridge-to-surgery stent placement versus emergency surgery for acute malignant colonic obstruction

Background Endoscopic self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) placement as a bridge to surgery is an option for acute malignant colonic obstruction. There is ongoing debate regarding the superiority and oncological safety of SEMS placement compared with emergency surgery. This retrospective study aimed to compare outcomes of these treatment approaches. Methods Patients were identified from cohorts treated between 2005 and 2012 in two teaching...