The endoscopic procedure is called stapler assisted esophagodiverticulostomy. Zenker's diverticulum occurs when a pouch forms in the lining of the esophagus. Symptoms include discomfort and pain when swallowing, hoarseness and loss of voice. We now use a special endoscope to enter the throat to view the pouch. The endoscope is then used to remove the pouch and repair the throat lining with a stapler assisted device.
Patients recover quickly and are home in a few days.
According to Dr. Sasaki, patients who had Zenker's surgery can hardly believe how good they feel being able to drink and eat without pain. My patients are relieved to know that there was a treatment that didn't require a painful operation. To me, it was a miracle procedure. Zenker's Diverticulum can now be removed endoscopically, with our patients able to eat the next day. All rights reserved.