The effect on porcine bile duct of a metallic stent covered with a paclitaxel-incorporated membrane.

Background: Biliary metallic stents are covered with a membrane to prevent tumor ingrowth and to prolong patency. The only function of these stents is to promote biliary drainage; they have no antitumor effect.

Methods: A metallic stent was developed that is covered with a paclitaxel-incorporated membrane.