Principles of surgical treatment of Zenker diverticulum

Background: Pharyngo-esophageal diverticula are most frequently described in elderly patients, having symptoms such as dysphagia, regurgitation, chronic cough, aspiration and weight loss. The etiology remains controversial, although most of the theories are linked to structural or functional abnormalities of the crico-pharyngeal muscle. With the therapeutic attitude varying from conservative to surgical (with associated morbidity and mortality), the importance of knowing the etiopathology and clinical implications of the disease for establishing the management of the case is mandatory. The aim of the study is the reevaluation of the methods and therapeutic principles in pharyngo-esophageal diverticular disease, starting from the etio pathogeny. Materials and Methods: Our study group is made up of 11 patients with surgical indication for Zenker diverticulum, operated between 2001 and 2011. Results: During that period, more patients were diagnosed with this pathology, but the surgical indication was carefully established, in conformity with the actual practice guides, which involve the evaluation of the clinical manifestations determined by the diverticulum, as well as the identification and interception of the pathological mechanisms by the therapeutic gesture. Conclusion: Although it has a “benign” pathology, the esophageal diverticulum requires complex surgical procedure that implies significant morbidity. Abbreviations UES= upper esophageal sphincter; NPO= nothing by mouth