Epiphrenic Diverticulum as a Rare Cause of Dysphagia

Epiphrenic diverticulum is a rare condi¬tion which produces disphagic problems. It occurs in one fifth of the total number of patients with esophageal diverticula. It is often associated with motility disorders such as hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter, achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm. Increased intraluminal pressure is responsible for the prolapse of mucosa and submucosa through the muscle layer, and the consequently formation bag extensions (diverticula). We presented 55 year old fe¬male patient who had dysphagia, regurgita¬tion and chest pain caused by retrosternal epiphrenic diverticulum who has success¬fully operated in our clinic. We performed open approach (left thoracotomy), and complex surgery: diverticulectomy, long esophagomyotomy and antireflux procedure (Belsey Mark IV). After 4 years patient is without symptoms of disphagia and in a good nuitrition.