This is a report of utilizing self-expandable metallic stent (EMS) for releasing benign obstruction caused by anastomotic torsion at colostomy closure. A 74-year-old male was detected to have a 5 mm flat polyp in the Rb region in September 2000, which was diagnosed as a recurrent tumor of sm2, having undergone polypectomy previously. In October 2000, low anterior resection was performed and covering loop colostomy was constructed at the descending colon. On February 22, 2001, the colostomy was closed. On the postoperative 11
th day, ileus was observed and Gastrografin (amidotrizoic acid) enema demonstrated a stenosis at the anastomosis. where a contrast agent did not pass but colonos cope easily went through. SO, the ileus was defined as a bend at the. proximal side of the anastomosis and torsion. As the condition was not improved with conservative treatment, colonoscopy and introduction of EMS (Ultraflex, 8 mm in diameter and 80 mm in length Boston Science Go, Ltd.) under fluoroscopic guidance were performed on the postoperative 21
st day, . Soon after EMS insertion, . flatus and watery diarrhea were observed, and flatulence was diminished. Mild tenderness around EMS site and fever were observed on the next day, but they disappeared a day after. The patient presented a good prognosis and was discharged on the 10
th day after EMS introduction. In the 4
th month after discharge, EMS fell off without patient's recognition. Neither ileus nor recurrent cancer has been observed for a year. EMS insertion for the large intestine is feasible not only for malignant stenosis but also for benign stenosis, in some cases, providing earlier improvement of QOL.
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