title: Variability of postoperative esophagrams after endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy: technique dependence.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We illustrate the dependence of postoperative day (POD) 1 esophagram findings on the closure technique used after endoscopic cricopharyngeal myotomy (ECPM).
  
  
  METHODS
  We performed a retrospective chart review of POD 1 fluoroscopic examinations of the cervical esophagus utilizing contrast dye after ECPM to assess radiologic findings associated with three different techniques of addressing the exposed buccopharyngeal fascia (BPF).
  
  
  RESULTS
  Each technique resulted in specific and different findings on the POD 1 esophagram. When the BPF was untreated, the esophagram demonstrated a pseudodiverticulum with free flow of contrast dye. When a fibrin glue seal was used, the esophagram demonstrated a curvilinear focus of contrast dye projected over the retropharyngeal soft tissue persisting after the swallow, similar to a leak. When fibrin glue application was combined with single-suture reapproximation of the mucosal incision, the pattern was similar to esophagrams performed 6 weeks after myotomy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Different techniques used to address the exposed BPF following ECPM result in specific findings on the POD 1 esophagram. Recognition of these imaging differences and open communication with the fluoroscopist will avoid a misdiagnosis of a pharyngeal leak, which might cause an unnecessary delay of oral feeding and hospital discharge.
authors.affiliation: Voice and Swallowing Institute, Department of Otolaryngology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY 10003, USA.
authors.forename: Craig E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Berzofsky
authors.forename: Roy A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Holiday
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Pitman
mesh_terms: D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005471:Fluoroscopy; D006801:Humans; D008480:Mediastinitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D013517:Otorhinolaryngologic Surgical Procedures / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D010609:Pharyngeal Muscles / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000601:surgery*; D011184:Postoperative Period; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013536:Suture Techniques
chemical_list: D015718:Fibrin Tissue Adhesive