Posttraumatic esophageal diverticulum

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Pathology
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Esophageal diverticula are outpouchings of the esophageal wall.
• Posttraumatic esophageal diverticula are exceptionally rare, with limited literature.
• Previous cases have primarily involved the upper or mid-esophagus.

Observation:

• This report presents a unique case of a distal esophageal diverticulum.
• The diverticulum resulted from a traumatic injury to the esophagus.
• This finding expands the known anatomical locations for posttraumatic esophageal diverticula.

Findings:

• A literature review identified only four cases of posttraumatic esophageal diverticula.
• This case represents the first documented instance of a distal esophageal posttraumatic diverticulum.
• The distinct characteristics suggest a potential for a separate classification.

Implications:

• The occurrence of a distal esophageal variant suggests posttraumatic esophageal diverticula may be underdiagnosed.
• Further recognition and reporting could lead to a revised understanding of their prevalence.
• This case highlights the importance of considering trauma as an etiology for esophageal diverticula, even in unusual locations.