Anne Ruth V. Olin Ms.

Leah Sabyle
BSN-3 March 7 ,2018
GI Article

Learning
While reading this article, I’ve learned that diverticula can also occurs in the esophagus. This
condition is called Pharyngoesophageal diverticulum or Zenker’s Diverticulum. It is the most
common type of diverticulum, which is three times more frequently in men and is usually seen in
older people over the age of 60, this condition occurs posteriorly through the cricopharyngeal
muscle in the midline of the neck (Brunner and suddarth 12 Edition Textbook).

Relearning
We’ve already discussed about Diverticulosis and for a recap, Diverticula or diverticulum is a
sac or pouches cause by herniation of a mucosal layer through weakened portions of the
intestinal wall, while diverticulosis is the multiple outpouchings of the diverticulum. Our
professor already discussed about some diagnostic tests that can be used to identify such disease,
just like in the article, the barium swallow test can be a great tool in identifying or examining the
esophagus, stomach, and GI tract. This condition can be treated through surgery which is called
diverticulectomy, if the diverticula became larger that may cause symptomatic signs and
symptoms that can be more dangerous or even life threatening, doctors prefers patient to undergo
surgery.

Unlearn
Before, I thought that a Diverticula disease can only occur at colon or large intestines of human
body but then as I read this research and read about the Zenker’s Diverticulum, I understood that
diverticulum can also appear at the pharynx and esophagus of our body.

Reference:
Le Mouel, J., & Fumery, M. (2017). Zenker’s Diverticulum. New England Journal of
Medicine, 377(22), e31. doi:10.1056/nejmicm1701620