cSEMS vs. NEPS in Stricture of Biliary Anastomosis After Liver Transplantation

Comparison of Use of Covered, Self-expandable Metal Stents (cSEMS) and Non-expandable Plastic Stents (NEPS) in Temporary Endoscopic Treatment of Stenosis of the Bilio-biliary Anastomosis After Liver Transplantation

Stenosis at the bilio-biliary anastomosis occurs in up to 30% of patients after orthotopic liver transplantation. This study compares endoscopic treatment with implantation of multiple plastic endoprostheses vs. use of a removable, covered self-expandable metal stent (cSEMS).

This is a multi-center randomised trial.

Inclusion Criteria:

• post-OLT stenosis of the bilio-biliary anastomotic

Exclusion Criteria:

• non-anastomotic stricture
• stent implatation technically not feasible