Per‐oral endoscopic myotomy as treatment for Killian–Jamieson diverticulum

Abstract

Abstract Killian–Jamieson diverticulum (KJD) is a rare type of esophageal diverticulum less commonly encountered compared with Zenker's diverticulum (ZD). Endoscopic approach for these diverticula has been rapidly evolving. Currently, a flexible endoscopic septum division is considered the first‐line treatment for symptomatic ZD patients, however reported recurrence rates are over 10% according to recent literature. With the advent of submucosal tunneling technique established by per‐oral endoscopic myotomy for achalasia, it has been applied to treat ZD named as Zenker's diverticulum per‐oral endoscopic myotomy (Z‐POEM) as a minimally invasive treatment. Although there are very few reports utilizing submucosal tunneling approach to KJD, we have opted to perform Z‐POEM in order to safely perform complete dissection of the muscle septum while maintaining mucosal integration. Due to the difficulty of anatomical location of KJD, we created mucosal incision and subsequent submucosal tunnel directly at the level of the septum as opposed to creating a submucosal tunnel few centimeters proximal to the septum as being previously proposed. We report a case in which this technique was successfully performed with complete resolution of dysphagia without any adverse event. This technique permits to perform complete myotomies without the fear of causing perforation. Although larger cohorts are required to assess its safety and efficacy, Z‐POEM to treat KJD seems to be promising.

Keywords

• esophageal diseases
• esophageal diverticulosis
• per‐oral endoscopic myotomy