The ability to take food orally may be hampered by the growth of a cancer. In patients with cancers of the oesophagus, stomach, pancreas or colon, narrowing of the lumen may obstruct the passage of food.

Cancers can also obstruct the bile duct or pancreatic ducts causing pain, jaundice and inflammation.

For patients who experience these problems, the insertion of metal stents using an endoscope will allow the restoration of nutrition and flow of digestive secretions. Placement of a metal stent is usually performed if:
Immediate surgery is not possible
Cancer is unsuitable for an operation

In these cases, insertion of a stent represents one aspect of cancer treatment and may be accompanied by further chemotherapy or radiotherapy.