Pathophysiology of mid-oesophageal and epiphrenic diverticula of the oesophagus.

Thirty-four patients with mid-oesophageal and epiphrenic diverticula were studied radiologically and manometrically. All patients had a motility disorder and gastro-oesophageal reflux was the usual precipitating factor. Most patients can be treated conservatively. In patients who do not respond to medical treatment surgery is necessary. The importance of surgical correction of the physiological abnormality should complement diverticulectomy.