Biliary Stent Migration: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Currently, Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has evolved as a therapeutic intervention for treating disorders related to the biliary system and plays an important role in treating benign and malignant strictures of the biliary system.

The placement of biliary stents is a frequent and useful procedure to decompress the biliary system, and endoscopic biliary stenting seems relatively simple. However, in some cases, it can lead to several complications. Distal or proximal migration of endoscopically placed biliary stents is one of the known complications of ERCP and can affect up to 6-10% of patients. 

Several factors, including those related to the patient, endoscopy, or stent, are involved in stent migration. When migration occurs, it is necessary to remove or replace endoprosthesis to prevent recurrent biliary complications and more severe consequences such as cholangitis and sepsis.

This review explores the frequency, etiology, risk factors, complications, and management strategies pertaining to biliary stent migration, consolidating diverse management approaches for informed decision-making.