Zenker diverticulum (pharyngeal pouch)

About Zenker diverticulum (pharyngeal pouch)

A pouch that develops in the lining of the lower throat. With swallowing, some food enters the pouch. Food can sit in the pouch for many hours. This can cause bad breath, contents to spill into the lungs leading to aspiration pneumonia and/or spitting up undigested food. Pills can also become lodged in the pouch. The disorder is rare and generally occurs in people over age 50.

Symptoms

Spitting up undigested food many hours after eating, difficulty swallowing, weight loss, painful swallowing, cough, multiple bouts of pneumonia.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. An esophagram and/or EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) is done to confirm the diagnosis.

Common tests: CT Scan.

Conventional treatment summary

Therapy depends on the severity of the defect and symptoms being experienced. Repair of the pouch can be done through an endoscope or with conventional surgery.

Medical specialties

Gastroenterology · Thoracic Surgery · Pediatric Gastroenterology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Zenker diverticulum (pharyngeal pouch).