Zenker's diverticulotomy

Removal of an abnormal pouch at the side of the pharynx/upper esophagus (food pipe) which is in the neck.

There are risks and complications with this procedure. They include but are not limited to the following.

General risks

• Infection can occur, requiring antibiotics and further treatment.
• Bleeding could occur and may require a return to the operating room.
• Small areas of the lung can collapse, increasing the risk of chest infection. This may need antibiotics and physiotherapy.
• Increased risk in obese people of wound infection, chest infection, heart and lung complications, and thrombosis.
• Heart attack or stroke could occur due to the strain on the heart.
• Blood clot in the leg (DVT) causing pain and swelling. In rare cases part of the clot may break off and go to the lungs.
• Death as a result of this procedure is rare but possible.

Specific risks

• The pouch may not be found.
• The sutures which are used to close the neck after removal of the pouch may break down. A fistula (track) may develop to the skin and food/fluids may come out of the neck wound. Feeding will have to be done through a tube for a few weeks, until the tract closes.
• In some people, healing of the wound may be abnormal and the wound can be thickened and red and the scar may be painful.
• Major blood vessels and nerves are in close proximity to the procedure site and rarely are damaged. This may be permanent if this occurs, including permanent hoarseness.
•A hematoma (bleeding under the skin) may occur, requiring a return to the operating room, and evacuation of the hematoma. On rare occasion, a tracheotomy may be required.