Prospective, randomized, single-center trial comparing 3 different 10F plastic stents in malignant mid and distal bile duct strictures.

Abstract Background: The aim of this study was to determine whether patency rates differ with respect to the material, design, and surface texture of 3 different plastic stents. Methods: A total of 120 patients (median age 70.5 years; interquartile range 62-78 years) with malignant mid or distal bile duct strictures, seen between March 1996 and May 1999, were prospectively randomized to receive a 10F polyurethane stent, a Teflon Tannenbaum stent, or a hydrophilic hydromer-coated polyurethane stent. The primary study outcome measure was the interval between stent insertion and the first episode of clogging (or the presence of jaundice at death without stent exchange). All 3 types of stent we…