OBJECTIVE: We undertook this study to report on transoral endoscopic management of Zenker's diverticulum. METHODS: Four patients with Zenker's diverticulum were treated by transoral microendoscopic surgery, two by stapler and two by laser resection. RESULTS: All patients were successfully treated, and no complications were noted. Hospital stay was <24 h in all cases. Patients treated by stapler resumed oral feeding 8 h after surgery and those treated by laser required nasogastric tube feeding. Normal oral intake was achieved 5 days later. CONCLUSIONS: Currently, treatment for Zenker's diverticulum must be done by transoral approach. Technique selection (laser or stapler) depends on surgeon's experience and their access to technology. Both techniques have important advantages when compared to classic open surgery (shorter hospital stay, lower cost, low morbidity and low rate of complications). Open surgery is indicated only when transoral technique is impossible for medical reasons or technical challenges, such as when technological support is not available.
OBJECTIVE: We undertook this study to report on transoral endoscopic management of Zenker's diverticulum. METHODS: Four patients with Zenker's diverticulum were treated by transoral microendoscopic surgery, two by stapler and two by laser resection. RESULTS: All patients were successfully treated, and no complications were noted. Hospital stay was <24 h in all cases. Patients treated by stapler resumed oral feeding 8 h after surgery and those treated by laser required nasogastric tube feeding. Normal oral intake was achieved 5 days later. CONCLUSIONS: Currently, treatment for Zenker's diverticulum must be done by transoral approach. Technique selection (laser or stapler) depends on surgeon's experience and their access to technology. Both techniques have important advantages when compared to classic open surgery (shorter hospital stay, lower cost, low morbidity and low rate of complications). Open surgery is indicated only when transoral technique is impossible for medical reasons or technical challenges, such as when technological support is not available.