Therapy of Zenker's diverticulum.
review · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 19633762.
- Also identified by DOI 10.3238/arztebl.2008.0120 and PMC identifier PMC1383183.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Zenker's diverticulum is a rare disease, which can cause considerable suffering. The classic presentation is worsening dysphagia. Anatomically there is a loose bulge of the dorsal wall of the hypopharynx. A septum between the diverticulum and the lumen of the esophagus can develop and hamper the passage of food. Therapeutic options include the open diverticular resection in combination with myotomy of the cricopharyngeus muscle, or endoluminal or transoral approaches which merely split the septum by means of rigid or flexible endoscopy. METHODS: Selective review of literature found in Medline. RESULTS: Significant relief is achievable in more than 90% of cases by one or another approach. Endoluminal methods have lower complication rates but higher recurrence rates. DISCUSSION: Treatment planning should be interdisciplinary, and take into account individual anatomy and risk factors, as well as local expertise.