Esophageal Diverticulum

What Is An Esophageal Diverticula?

An esophageal diverticulum is a pouch that forms in the esophagus, protruding through a weak area in the esophageal lining or wall. This outpouching traps food and liquids and can lead to difficulty swallowing and other issues.

Types of Esophageal Diverticula

• Zenker’s Diverticulum – develops near the throat, in the upper part of the esophagus
• Mid-Esophageal Diverticulum – forms in the middle of the esophagus, often caused by scarring or inflammation
• Epiphrenic Diverticulum – found close to the stomach, near the lower esophagus

Esophageal Diverticulum Symptoms

• Difficulty swallowing 
• Regurgitation of undigested food
• Coughing or choking, especially at night and when lying down
• Sensation of food stuck in the throat or chest
• Bad breath

What Causes an Esophageal Diverticulum?

According to Dr. Anthony Vine, esophageal diverticula may be caused by high LES pressures or previous GERD surgery where the wrap has been made too tight. The diverticulum almost always projects into the right chest on radiographic evaluation and may be confused for a hiatal hernia.

Treatment Options for Achalasia and Esophageal Diverticula

Dr. Vine has had enormous success performing laparoscopic surgery on patients with large or symptomatic esophageal diverticula with intraoperative assistance from a gastroenterologist using an endoscope. A team approach always yields the best results. 

He sees patients for consultations at the Laparoscopic Surgical Center of New York located at 1010 5th Avenue in New York City. 

For more on the minimally invasive surgical options visit our Laparoscopic Esophageal Surgery and Heller Myotomy page.