An Assessment of the Optimal Time for Removal of Esophageal Stents Used in the Treatment of an Esophageal Anastomotic Leak or Perforation

Endoluminal esophageal stent placement is a safe and effective treatment for patients with an acute esophageal perforation or intrathoracic anastomotic leak after esophagectomy. Removal of stents at 2 weeks for anastomotic leak or 4 weeks for perforation has the potential to significantly decrease the incidence of complications associated with stent use.