Endoscopic Stapling Treatment of Pharyngeal Pouch

BACKGROUND: We describe our experience of a recently reported endoscopic stapling technique for the treatment of pharyngeal pouch. METHODS: In contrast to other endoscopic procedures, which only divide the common wall between oesophagus and diverticulum, the linear cutting stapler also tightly seals the divided edges of mucosa and muscle. RESULTS: The procedure was performed without complications in three patients with complete resolution of pre-treatment symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge this is the first report of the use of this procedure in Australia. This endoscopic stapling operation appears to be safe, simple and cost-effective and offers advantages over previously used techniques.