Cervical esophageal web associated with Zenker's diverticulum

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Zenker's diverticulum is a condition affecting the pharyngoesophageal junction.
• Cervical esophageal webs are thin membranes in the esophagus.
• The co-occurrence of these conditions is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between Zenker's diverticulum and cervical esophageal webs.
• To evaluate the impact of resecting esophageal webs during diverticulectomy.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of open diverticulectomy with myotomy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 12 patients undergoing diverticulectomy and myotomy for Zenker's diverticulum.
• Intraoperative identification and resection of cervical esophageal webs.
• Open diverticulectomy technique facilitating myotomy and lumen inspection.

Main Results:

• 50% of patients had coexisting cervical esophageal webs.
• Resection of webs was performed concurrently with diverticulectomy.
• Open diverticulectomy allowed for identification of intraesophageal abnormalities.
• The procedure demonstrated acceptable morbidity limits.

Conclusions:

• The association between Zenker's diverticulum and cervical esophageal webs is significant and not rare.
• Cervical esophageal webs can cause postoperative dysphagia and should be resected.
• Open diverticulectomy is a suitable approach for Zenker's diverticulum, especially when webs are suspected or present.