Use of surgical stapling device in excision of pharyngeal diverticulum

Pharyngeal diverticulum (Zenker's diverticulum, hypopharyngeal pouch) is an outpouching of pharyngeal mucosa through a triangular area of weakness between the lower oblique fibres of the inferior constrictor muscle and cricopharyngeus called Killian's dehiscence. Prescribed treatment in large pouches is excision of the diverticulum with or without cricopharyngeal myotomy. Experience of closure of the oesophageal defect with an automatic stapling device is presented in nine cases of pharyngeal diverticula. Previous reports describing this technique have included substantial delays in the resumption of oral intake and prolonged hospitalization. It is shown that these delays are unnecessary.