Endoscopic flexible treatment of Zenker's diverticulum: A modification of the needle-knife technique

Background and study aim: Endoscopic treatment of Zenker's diverticulum has been successfully reported over the last 10 years using different approaches. The hook-knife is a new device originally developed for endoscopic submucosal dissection procedures. This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of endoscopic myotomy performed with the hook-knife. Patients and method: From July 2005, 32 consecutive patients (23-male, mean age 74.8 years) with dysphagia secondary to the presence of Zenker's diverticulum were prospectively enrolled. Myotomy was performed using a straight-end transparent hood to the tip of the scope and the hook-knife for the incision of the bridge between the Zenker's diverticulum and the esophagus. Clinical outcome was evaluated assigning a dysphagia symptom score from 0 (symptoms absent) to 4 (inability to swallow saliva). Results: General anesthesia was used in 4 patients, deep sedation with propofol in 23 patients, while midazolam was used in 5 patients. The mean procedural time was 28 minutes. Complications occurred in 2 patients (6.25%). At 1 month follow-up, the mean dysphagia score was significantly improved from 2.9 to 0.6 (P