Management of Zenker’s Diverticulum

Zenker’s diverticulum is a rare pulsion pseudodiverticulum that occurs in the pharyngoesophageal area. A large proportion of patients with esophageal diverticula are asymptomatic. Dysphagia is the most common symptom, but regurgitation, weight loss, chest pain, halitosis, and aspiration are also common complaints. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated in up to 95% of patients. The incidence of cancer in a diverticulum is almost negligible. Treatment may range from observation to diverticulum resection. A myotomy of the upper esophageal sphincter; however, is mandatory if a procedure is indicated even if the diverticulum is resected or not. Endoscopic therapy is a possibility with good outcomes.