What is Zenker’s diverticulum?

Zenker’s diverticulum is a pouch that forms at the back of the throat at the junction of the pharynx and the esophagus (the food passage to the stomach). The pouch causes problems with swallowing.

Who gets Zenker’s diverticulum?

Zenker's diverticulum is most common in people over the age of 60. However, we have seen patients in their 30s who have Zenker’s diverticulum.

What causes Zenker’s diverticulum?

The cause of Zenker’s diverticulum is unknown. The formation of the pouch does not appear to be hereditary. In many patients who have Zenker’s diverticulum, other problems of the esophagus are present. However, this is not always the case.

What are the most common symptoms of Zenker’s diverticulum?

The most common symptom of Zenker’s diverticulum is difficulty swallowing food. Food may actually come back up out of the mouth several minutes or even hours after eating. Patients also often complain of choking, feeling mucus collecting in the throat, hoarseness, or bad breath. The symptoms can be quite embarrassing and debilitating.

How is Zenker’s diverticulum diagnosed?

In patients with symptoms suggestive of Zenker’s diverticulum a very simple and safe x-ray called a barium swallow is performed.

How is Zenker’s diverticulum treated?

Surgery is required to treat patients with Zenker’s diverticulum effectively. We use a minimally invasive endoscopic treatment know as endoscopic staple diverticulostomy (ESD). This treatment is safe, effective, and well tolerated.

Are there any alternative treatments to surgery?

There are no other treatments available to treat patients with Zenker’s diverticulum effectively. Surgery is the only treatment that will permanently relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients. In patients who do not desire surgical treatment, alterations in diet may help lessen the side effects of the pouch. No medications are available that will treat Zenker’s diverticulum.

What can happen if the Zenker’s diverticulum is not treated?

The main problem will be continued difficulty swallowing. The risks associated with having Zenker’s diverticulum are weight loss, malnutrition, and pneumonia caused by food entering the lungs from the pouch. Although uncommon, these can be life-threatening.

What do I do if I think I have a Zenker’s diverticulum?

You should discuss your symptoms with your doctor, who can then order a barium swallow x-ray. This test will confirm if a pouch is present. If you have Zenker’s diverticulum, a consultation for surgery is the next step. Make an appointment