Zenker’s diverticulum perforation due to transoesophageal echocardiography: Case report of the management of an extremely rare life-threatening iatrogenic complication

INTRODUCTION: Transoesophageal echocardiography is generally considered to be a safe monitoring and diagnostic tool. Even though the severe morbidity rate is relatively low and mortality rate exceptional, sometimes life-threatening events may occur during this procedure. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We described the case of a 79-year-old woman with an extremely rare case of Zenker’s diverticulum perforation following a transoesophageal echocardiography and its successful management with a 6 months follow-up. DISCUSSION: Several specific endoscopic techniques have been described in the literature in case of Zenker’s diverticulum and we believe the use of check lists should be implemented. CONCLUSION: We hope that the documentation of this rare iatrogenic complication will remind the operators of this procedure to be aware of a documented Zenker’s diverticulum and when necessary, to take the published precautions to prevent a highly severe complication.