Pharyngeal Pouch Surgery – Effective Treatment for Swallowing Difficulties

A pharyngeal pouch (also called a Zenker’s diverticulum) is a pouch that forms at the back of the throat, causing symptoms like difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of food, bad breath, and coughing. Surgery is often needed to remove or repair the pouch to restore normal swallowing.

When is surgery needed?

You may require pharyngeal pouch surgery if you experience:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Regurgitation of undigested food

• Chronic cough or aspiration

• Recurrent chest infections

• Weight loss due to swallowing problems

Surgical options

There are two main types of surgery:

• Stapling (endoscopic) surgery: A minimally invasive technique using a rigid endoscope to divide the pouch and improve swallowing. This approach usually means faster recovery and less discomfort.

• Open surgery: A traditional approach through a neck incision, used for larger or complicated pouches or if endoscopic surgery is not suitable.

Benefits

• Relief from swallowing difficulties

• Prevention of aspiration and infections

• Improved quality of life

Recovery

Stapling surgery often allows quick return to normal eating within days. Open surgery may require a longer recovery of 1–2 weeks.

Mr Adeel offers expert evaluation and treatment for pharyngeal pouch with personalised surgical options.