ABSTRACT
O n radiologic evaluation, most diverticula are larger than 2 cm (76%). Upper endos copy is not routinely recommended and must be performed with extreme caution to prevent perforation. Esophageal manometry is reserved for patients suspected of having associated foregut disorders. Patients with associated gastroesophageal reflux disease (25%) should be treated adequately preoperatively. Full evaluation of the esophagus (complete barium swallow and endoscopy) is completed after repair of the diverticulum, when easy transit from pharynx to esophagus has resumed. General anesthesia is performed with single-lumen endotracheal intubation. Patients with large diverticula should be kept on clear fluids 2-3 days prior to surgery to decrease the risk of aspiration during induction of anesthesia. Prophylactic antibiotics and deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis are routinely used.
