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Updated: Jun 24, 2025

An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
C5 palsy following esophageal diverticulum resection
Brandon Michael Wilkinson1, Hanish Polavarapu1, Brendan Bernard Maloney1
1Department of Neurosurgery, State University of New York (SUNY)Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, United States.
C5 palsy (C5P) is a rare complication after esophageal diverticulectomy. Early recognition and management of C5P are crucial for patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- C5 palsy (C5P) is a known complication following cervical spine surgery.
- C5P is rarely reported after open esophageal diverticulectomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of C5 palsy following open esophageal diverticulectomy.
- To highlight the importance of recognizing and managing C5P in this context.
Main Methods:
- A 61-year-old patient underwent open esophageal diverticulectomy for symptomatic Zencker's diverticulum.
- Postoperative symptoms of right upper extremity weakness and sensory deficits were observed.
- Electromyography confirmed the diagnosis of C5 palsy.
Main Results:
- The patient developed C5 palsy post-esophageal diverticulectomy.
- Clinical presentation and electromyography findings were consistent with C5P.
- The complication, though rare, occurred in this case.
Conclusions:
- C5 palsy is an infrequent but potential complication of open esophageal diverticulectomy.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are essential for optimal patient outcomes.
- This case underscores the need for vigilance regarding C5P after this procedure.
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