Search Site

General Info

• Zenker's Homepage

• Zenker's Pictures

• Dr. Chang

• Patient Information

• Contact Info

• If You Live Far Away

 

Procedure

• ESD Procedure

• ESD Slideshow

• Comparing Surgical Approaches

• Frequently Asked Questions

• Publications

 

Comparing Different Surgical Approaches Treating
Zenker's Diverticulum
by Christopher Chang, MD • Last Modified 7/19/2008

Table below summarizes the outcomes when comparing the different surgical approaches in treating Zenker's Diverticulum. ESD is Endoscopic Staple Diverticulostomy which is what we advocate. Endoscopic CO2 laser uses a similar approach, but a laser is used to divide the common wall instead of a stapling device. Open transcervical approach is performed through an incision in the neck instead of going through the mouth endoscopically.

 
ESD
Endoscopic CO2 Laser
Open Transcervical Approach
Time Under Anesthesia
< 45 minutes
> 60 minutes (several sessions not uncommon)
83.2 minutes
Days Before Being Allowed to Eat/Drink
< 1 day
2.2 days
4.5 days
Days of Hospitalization
< 1 day
6.5 days
7.6 days
Complication Rate
2.6%
7.4%
11.8%
Recurrence Rate
6%
11.5%
5%
Risks Resulting in a Surgical Complication
  • Esophageal Perforation
  • Mediastinitis
  • Cervical Abscess
  • Chipped Teeth
  • Aspiration Pneumonia
  • Transient Vocal Cord Paralysis
  • Recurrence
  • Esophageal Perforation
  • Mediastinitis
  • Cervical Abscess
  • Chipped Teeth
  • Aspiration Pneumonia
  • Airway Fire
  • Oral/Facial Burns
  • Recurrence
  • Esophageal Perforation
  • Mediastinitis
  • Cervical Abscess
  • Aspiration Pneumonia
  • Bleeding
  • Hematoma
  • Nerve Injury

Source for the table information obtained from "Endoscopic Staple Diverticulostomy for Zenker's Diverticulum: Review of Literature and Experience in 159 Consecutive Cases. Laryngoscope. 113(6):957-965, 2003. Link"