Advantages and disadvantages of different airway stents

	Silicone	Metal (uncovered)	Hybrid
Bronchoscopy	Rigid	Flexible	Variable
Migration	+++*	+^¶	++
Tumor/granulation tissue growth	+ (proximal and distal ends)	+++	+ (proximal and distal ends)
Airway perforation	–	+	±
Resists extrinsic compression	–	+++	++
Suitability for indefinite use	+++	–	±
Suitability for temporary use	+++	–	±
Mucus plugging	++	+	+
Stent fracture	±	+	+
Expense	+	++	+++

Clinicians should be familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of each individual stent from each manufacturer. All stents require expertise for placement and removal.

* This feature makes silicone stents suitable for repositioning and removal.
¶ This feature makes metal stents difficult to remove.

Graphic 58596 Version 2.0

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Advantages and disadvantages of different airway stents