[Laparoscopic transhiatal approach to epiphrenic esophageal diverticula].
BACKGROUND
The operative treatment for epiphrenic diverticula is usually performed via thoracotomy or laparotomy.


METHODS
Alternatively we describe the feasibility of a laparoscopic transhiatal approach in three consecutive symptomatic patients with four epiphrenic diverticula. In all cases, the diverticula were completely resected laparoscopically in combination with an esophagomyotomy and a posterior partial fundoplication.


RESULTS
The three patients showed uneventful postoperative courses with a speedy recovery and are symptom-free after a follow-up of 22-41 months.


CONCLUSIONS
Our results demonstrate that laparoscopic transhiatal procedure in patients with symptomatic epiphrenic diverticula can be performed safely, effectively, and gently.
Raakow
R
R
Klinik für Allgemein-, Viszeral- und Transplantationschirurgie, Charité, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Humboldt Universität zu Berlin. roland.raakow@charite.de
Schmidt
S
S
Neuhaus
P
P
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004936:Diverticulum, Esophageal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D018662:Fundoplication; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D011859:Radiography; D013997:Time Factors