To evaluate initial experience with shape memory alloy stent as an alterative to colostomy in patients with intestinal obstruction by colorectal cancer, forty four patients diagnosed with acute and chronic colorectal obstructions from malignant causes were subjected to stent placement. Among them 41 patients achieved clinical decompression. Thirty three cases died within 51～720 days and the other 5 cases were still alive without intestinal obstruction for 1～8 months. Our conclusions are shape memory alloy stent may be useful in the management of terminal or high risk surgical patients for palliative purposes instead of colostomy. Palliative management by stent placement combined with chemotherapy and immunotherapy might prolong the survival time of these patients. Placement of stent for acute colorectal bowel obstructions facilitates preoperative bowel preparation for surgical resection and obviates the need for fecal diversion or on table lavage.