Comparison of Unilateral With Bilateral Metal Stenting for Malignant Hilar Biliary Obstruction

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to compare the clinical effectiveness between unilateral and bilateral metal stenting for malignant hilar biliary obstruction (MHBO). Methods: From January 2012 to October 2017, consecutive patients with MHBO underwent unilateral or bilateral stent insertion at our center. Technical and clinical success, stent patency, and survival were compared between these 2 groups. Results: A total of 110 patients with MHBO were included in this study. Technical successful rates of unilateral and bilateral stenting were 93.1% (54/58) and 90.4% (47/52), respectively (P=0.864). Clinical successful rates of unilateral and bilateral stenting were 96.4% (53/55) and 97.9% (46/47), respectively (P=1.000). There was no significant difference in stent patency period (unilateral, 182 d; bilateral, 198 d; P=0.999) and survival (unilateral, 189 d; bilateral, 199 d; P=0.867) between 2 groups. Conclusions: Unilateral and bilateral metal stenting had similar clinical effectiveness and long-term outcomes in patients with MHBO.