Zenker's diverticulum - effectiveness of endoscopic therapy

Abstract

Zenker’s diverticulum is the most common type of esophageal diverticulum with a prevalence of 0.01 to 0.11 %, usually found in middle-aged and older patients. The prevalent symptoms are dysphagia and regurgitation. Treatment is recommended in symptomatic patients and consists of myotomy of the cricopharyngeal muscle. Both surgical and endoscopic methods are used in the treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum. With technical advances, flexible endoscopy has come to the forefront in the treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum, especially in older polymorbid patients. Its advantages include lower morbidity and mortality, shorter surgery time, the possibility of performing the procedure without general anesthesia, and a shorter hospital stay, including early oral food intake. In this paper we present our own experience with endoscopic treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum and at the same time we provide a review of effectiveness with other methods of treatment.