An esophageal diverticulum is an outpouching of the esophageal wall that can cause swallowing difficulties, regurgitation of undigested food, chronic cough, aspiration, bad breath, and chest discomfort. Diverticula may occur in the upper, mid, or lower esophagus, with Zenker’s diverticulum being the most common type. Surgical or endoscopic treatment relieves symptoms by eliminating the pouch and restoring normal swallowing function.

Esophageal diverticula form due to increased pressure inside the esophagus or weakness in the esophageal wall. Treatment depends on the diverticulum’s location and size. Options include endoscopic diverticulotomy, minimally invasive surgical repair, or myotomy to reduce pressure and prevent recurrence. The goal is to open or remove the pouch and improve esophageal emptying.

Improved swallowing. Reduced regurgitation. Decreased aspiration risk. Relief of chronic cough. Elimination of bad breath. Improved quality of life. Minimally invasive options available.

Patients with symptomatic esophageal diverticulum. Patients with regurgitation of undigested food. Patients with chronic cough or aspiration. Patients with dysphagia or sensation of food sticking. Patients with imaging or endoscopy confirming a diverticulum.

Depending on the diverticulum type, treatment may be performed endoscopically or surgically. Endoscopic diverticulotomy divides the wall between the diverticulum and esophagus to create a single channel. Surgical repair involves removing or reducing the pouch and performing a myotomy to prevent recurrence. Most procedures are minimally invasive.

Temporary sore throat or swallowing discomfort. Rare risks include bleeding, perforation, infection, or recurrence. Patients with severe motility disorders may require additional evaluation.

Timeline Most patients resume light activity within a few days. Soft diet for one to two weeks. Swallowing improves gradually as swelling resolves. Full recovery typically occurs within two to four weeks.

Most patients experience significant improvement in swallowing, regurgitation, and cough. Recurrence is uncommon when the underlying motility issue is addressed. Long-term follow-up ensures durable results.

Dr. de la Cruz-Muñoz is a nationally recognized bariatric, metabolic, and foregut surgeon with extensive experience in minimally invasive and endoscopic treatment of esophageal diverticula. His expertise in esophageal motility and foregut anatomy ensures safe, effective, and durable outcomes. Our practice provides bilingual care for patients from Miami, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Latin America.