The role of fluoroscopy in diagnosing a Killian–Jamieson diverticulum

Abstract

A Killian–Jamieson diverticulum is a ‘false’ diverticulum on the lateral side of the proximal cervical esophagus. They are much rarer than Zenker diverticula and can be difficult to diagnose. They are best visualized using fluoroscopy studies, however, the workup for patients admitted with dysphagia can be sometimes extensive and unnecessary, leading to costly hospital stays, longer admissions and exposure to excessive radiation. Herein, we present a patient previously diagnosed with a Killian Jamieson diverticulum, who presented with worsening dysphagia, odynophagia and neck swelling, and was found to have an unusual inferior extension of the diverticulum. This paper will recognize the role of fluoroscopy in diagnosing diverticula and identifying causes of dysphagia, and to also recognize the use of American College of Radiology ‘ACR’ Appropriateness Criteria to minimize unnecessary studies.

Keywords

• diverticulum
• killian–jamieson diverticulum
• fluoroscopy
• radiology
• barium swallow
• appropriateness criteria