HILZO Esophageal Stent Placement for Proximal Malignant Strictures Abutting the Upper Esophageal Sphincter

ABSTRACT Endoscopists often maintain 2 cm between the proximal stent flare and upper esophageal sphincter (UES) when stenting the proximal esophagus. We discuss 2 patients with malignant proximal esophageal disease who underwent UES HILZO stent placement within this margin. Both experienced immediate improvement in oral intake and no immediate procedural complications. One stent was removed after 23 days for chest pain, though dysphagia improved. The second was removed after 1 month but required restenting. These cases demonstrate technical feasibility of HILZO stent placement within 2 cm of the UES but highlight the need to evaluate long-term tolerability and careful patient selection.