Self-expanding metallic stents are superior to plastic stents in terms of stent insertion-related mortality, morbidity, and quality of palliation. The uncovered variety is disadvantaged by high rate of tumor in-growth; adequately designed randomized, controlled trials need to examine outcomes and cost-effectiveness of covered versus uncovered metallic stents.

If a double-hitch throw is used in the first throw, two to three further throws are recommended. The four-throw knot configurations have the best knot qualities and should generally be used.