Local hyperthermia mediated by gold nanoparticle-integrated silicone-covered stent: feasibility and tissue response in a rat esophageal model.

• A gold nanoparticle-integrated silicone-covered self-expanding metal stent was placed in the rat esophagus. • Upon near-infrared laser irradiation, this stent quickly increased the temperature of the stented esophagus. • Local hyperthermia using this stent was feasible and resulted in cell death through apoptosis.